Unprocessed lithium ore belonging to Xingfeng Investment, estimated to be about 90,000 metric tonnes, has been deposited at the Walvis Bay harbour in the past week.

This is despite the Ministry of Mines and Energy indicating that Xingfeng does not possess a removal or transport permit for lithium.

When nbc News arrived at the Walvis Bay port, a heap of unprocessed lithium ore estimated to be about 90,000 metric tonnes was visible.

A Swiss company, Terminal Investment Limited, has been selected to operate and manage the new container terminal at the Walvis Bay harbour.

The largest shipping line in the world, Mediterranean Shipping Company, is the main shareholder in the company.

Announcing the news to the media at Walvis Bay, Namport Chief Executive Officer, Andrew Kanime, expressed confidence in the Geneva-based company.