South Africa says investigation found no evidence of arms shipment to Russia from the country

(Patria) - South African President Cyril Ramaphosa said on Sunday that an independent investigation found no evidence that a Russian ship collected arms from the country destined for Russia late last year, Reuters reported.

In allegations that sparked a diplomatic row, the US ambassador to South Africa, Reuben Brigety, told local journalists at a briefing in May that the Russian cargo ship Lady R loaded weapons at a naval base near Cape Town in December.

The US allegations raised questions over claims of South Africa's non-alignment and neutrality regarding Russia's war in Ukraine and concerns over possible Western sanctions. In an address to the nation, Ramaphosa said the allegations had a detrimental effect on South Africa's economy and its position in the world.

"The panel found no evidence to support the claim that the ship transported weapons from
South Africa destined for Russia," Ramaphosa said. "No export permit for weapons was issued, nor were any weapons exported," he added.

Ramaphosa said the ship docked at the base to deliver equipment ordered in 2018 by the South African arms procurement company Armscor for the South African National Defence Force.

He said he could not disclose details of the unloaded equipment as it could compromise important military operations and endanger the lives of South African soldiers.

"When all things are considered, none of the allegations of arms supplies to Russia have been proven to be true," Ramaphosa said.

"None of the individuals who made these allegations could provide any evidence to substantiate the claims that were made against our country," he added.

When the allegations were made, South African officials quickly dismissed the claims, and Ramaphosa launched an independent investigation led by a retired judge.