A ship carrying new cars from South Africa has been blocked at Zeebrugge Port due to the discovery of a large spider population on board, the port said on Thursday, confirming a report by Het Laatste Nieuws.
Although an expert asserted that the spiders present no risk to humans, the port declined to risk introducing an exotic species into Europe.
The ship carries several thousand vehicles. However, spider webs were found across multiple decks after it docked. “The decision was made to hermetically seal the hold. Even though an expert has said these arachnids pose no danger to humans, we cannot risk releasing an exotic species in Europe,” the port authority explained.
The shipping company, terminal operator, and port captain have opted to collaborate with a specialised company, which will use a biological treatment to eradicate the spiders.
“The operation should be finalised by tonight. Following a further examination, we will be able to determine whether it’s feasible to unload the ship,” the port pointed out.
The port authorities underscored the “exceptional” nature of the situation.
