Political Situation In Comoros Can Affect Yachts

Created by doina. Last modified on 2003-10-16 14:01:21
Countries: Comoros

Comoros has a volatile political history. Mercenaries arriving by sea seem to play a regular role in local politics and thus yachts may be treated with suspicion upon arrival. In Aug 2003, a South African yacht was detained in Moroni for five days, the crew's passports held by immigration; after five days they were ordered to leave. In Oct 2003, upon arrival in Fomboni an American yacht was ordered to immediately leave Moheli because of the recent arrival of mercenaries on that island. The same yacht was refused permission to anchor anywhere other than Mutsamudu while on Anjouan; "political situation" being given as a reason.

Jeff Williams, s/v Gryphon