UN investigates Probo Koala scandal

Wednesday 26 November 2008

The United Nations has sent a special envoy to the Netherlands to look into events surrounding the ship Probo Koala in 2006, news agency ANP reports on Wednesday.

The ship, owned by Amsterdam-based oil trader Trafigura, tried to get rid of its cargo of waste in Amsterdam but changed plans because it was too expensive. The ship then headed for Ivory Coast where the waste was dumped, allegedly killing at least 16 people and making thousands sick.

The UN envoy, Okechukwu Obinna Ibeanu, wants to talk to human rights organisations, academics, MPs and officials who were involved in the scandal. He will then report back to the UN committee on human rights.

Last month, two people were jailed in Ivory Coast for their role in dumping the waste. Other trials are pending in London and Amsterdam.

© DutchNews.nl

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