The Philippines says it has seized a North Korean ship in line with tightened UN sanctions targeting the country’s nuclear programme. The Jin Teng is one of 31 ships operated by North Korean firm Ocean Maritime Management, which is subject to an asset freeze and sanctions. New UN sanctions were imposed after North Korea’s recent nuclear and ballistic missile tests. They include mandatory inspections of all cargo going to or from the DPRK.

The Philippines government says it will impound the Jin Teng and eventually deport the crew.  The Jin Teng was sailing under a Sierra Leone flag. Pyongyang reacted to Wednesday’s sanctions by firing six short-range missiles into the sea. Leader Kim Jong-Un later ordered that the country’s nuclear weapons should be “ready for use” at any time.

What exactly is banned?

• The export of coal, iron and iron ore used for North Korea’s nuclear or ballistic missile programmes.
• All gold, titanium ore, vanadium ore, rare earth minerals and aviation fuel exports.
• Any item (except food and medicine) that could develop North Korea’s armed forces.
• Small arms and light weapons are now included in an arms embargo.
• Upmarket watches, watercraft, snowmobiles and other recreational sports equipment added to a ban on luxury goods.
• No vessels or planes can be leased or registered to North Korea.