• Wednesday, September 18,2024

ISA Hosts Fourth Meeting Port Experts Emphasize Joint Coordination for Border and Seaport Protection

The Port Experts Team of the International Security Alliance (ISA) underscored the critical need for enhanced communication and joint coordination among agencies responsible for border and seaport security. Their focus was on countering the sophisticated methods used by criminal organizations to smuggle drugs via sea routes. 

The experts highlighted the importance of leveraging modern technologies, increasing intelligence sharing, and collaborating with global experts to mitigate the risks associated with these illicit activities and ensure the safety of maritime trade routes in the region. This discussion took place during the fourth virtual meeting of the ISA's Port Experts Team, addressing key concerns around drug trafficking and seaport security across the Middle East and North Africa. 

The session saw the participation of 45 experts from 15 countries, who explored challenges facing the region’s ports. Key issues raised included the struggles of Bahrain and the UAE in tackling drug smuggling, illicit goods trafficking, human trafficking, cyberattacks, and terrorism, all of which pose significant threats to global trade and economic stability. Representatives from the UAE's General Directorate of Anti-Narcotics, along with the Federal Authority for Identity and Citizenship, Customs, and Ports Security, shared their experiences in combating trafficking,of the region's busiest hubs emphasizing both their successes and ongoing challenges. 

 Similarly, officials from the General Directorate of Criminal Investigation and Customs Affairs in Bahrain outlined their efforts in addressing port security issues and combating drug smuggling. In addition, Mr. G tz Becker, CEO of the ferry company FRS, which operates between Spain and Morocco, presented a case study on how ferry routes are exploited by smugglers to transport drugs between Europe and North Africa.