A cargo ship from Panama was detained in accordance with Chinese law on July 15 at a Shanghai port by the Shanghai Maritime Court.

The ship, named ORCHID DRAGON, was detained when carrying cargo of more than 40,000 tons to the Shanghai Luojing Port, for failing to pay back a loan for ship parts on time.

At the time of detention, all crew members on board were Chinese.

According to the captain, all of the Chinese crew members on board didn't get their pay on time.

After communication and negotiation with the ship owner, lawyers learned that his business is in hardship because of a break in the chain of capital. But the owner promised to raise funds to submit a warranty bond to the court as soon as possible.

Lawyers from the court instructed Chinese crew members about how to get their money back via lawsuits, as allowed through Chinese law.

Lawyers inspect the cargo ship from a distance at the Shanghai Luojing Port. [Photo by Ni Zhongyue/People's Court Daily]

Lawyers climb the gangway of the Panama cargo ship. [Photo by Ni Zhongyue/People's Court Daily]

Lawyers read the order of detention to the captain. [Photo by Ni Zhongyue/People's Court Daily]

Lawyers from the Shanghai Maritime Court help crew members file lawsuits. [Photo by Ni Zhongyue/People's Court Daily]