24-hour surveillance for Territory's borders
On Friday, August 21, 2020, Commissioner of Police, Mr Michael B. Matthews in a public service announcement confirmed that the Territory was facing some challenges with persons smuggling in individuals.
Boost in border security
Now, through an initiative called “BVILOVE: Partnering and Protecting our Sea Borders in The New Regular," the Immigration Department has teamed up with Her Majesty's Customs to execute an enhanced border security plan.
Newly appointed Acting Commissioner of Customs, Mr Wade N. Smith, who is leading the initiative to boost the security of the borders, said as a result of COVID-19, now more than ever, borders must be secured.
“Our sea borders must be further strengthened to prevent illegal entry of persons generally, and more specifically during this period of COVID-19, where there must be screening and monitoring of persons and other precautionary measures to prevent the importation and spread of the virus,” he said, according to a Government press release.
According to Premier and Minister of Finance, Hon Andrew A. Fahie (R1), the Customs and Immigration officers will be working from marine platforms in shifts so that there will be a more intense 24-hour surveillance of the borders.
New line of defence against COVID-19
He said the platforms will also form part of a launching point for patrol and intercepting suspicious vessels as part of a new line of defence.
“It is a lot to ask of the team because these shifts will be long hours on the sea, but our officers have expressed their commitment, and we are grateful to them and their families for what they are doing to help keep everyone safe,” the Premier said.
23 Responses to “24-hour surveillance for Territory's borders”
Governor uses your power. Bring the UK to help secure the border. They know the reason they don't want the UK to do it . Raton Raton.