MOSCOW, October 29 (RIA Novosti) - The Russian-crewed...

The ship was given permission to enter the port following a thorough inspection by Maltese officials.

The Arctic Sea disappeared in the Atlantic on July 24 while carrying a $2 million shipment of timber from Finland to Algeria and was intercepted by the Russian Navy off West Africa on August 17, when eight alleged hijackers were arrested.

"The vessel was handed over today to plenipotentiary officials of Malta, who represent the state flag [under which the vessel sails]," spokesman Vladimir Markin said.

He said the vessel, still escorted by the Ladny frigate, would soon arrive in the Maltese port of La Valetta.

The head of Finnish company Solchart, the ship"s operator, told RIA Novosti by telephone that the inspection showed the Arctic Sea was not carrying any illegal cargo.

"The inspection produced a categorical conclusion that the vessel is "absolutely clean,"" Viktor Matveyev said.

A new crew of 14 sailors flew from Russia to Malta on

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