Five persons were arrested by the Customs and Border Control Service (CBC) for various work and CBC offenses during an operation on Thursday 21^st November at the George Town Port. 

CBC Deputy Director, Mr. Jeff Jackson having the responsibility for the Enforcement portfolio stated that “the operation was to heighten border security efforts by executing actions to better identify and understand the threats, to deter or lead to the seizure of narcotics, weapons, undeclared goods, thus disrupting transnational, organized criminal activities, and contributing to improving security at the George Town Port”. 

During the operation, CBC officers searched sections of the vessel, including crew members and their cabins, imported vehicles and cargo as well as other individuals working at the port who were suspected of committing CBC offenses. Detector dogs were used extensively during the operation.

Mr. Jackson said “CBC will continue to work aggressively to address illegal activities at our borders along with other CBC offences such as over stayers and work related offences with our partner agencies by taking such actions in strengthening our position to deny opportunities to those with criminal intent”. He further stated that he could not provide further details on the operation but that CBC works very closely with the Port Authority who provided great support and assistance with the success of the operation.

Investigations are ongoing and CBC is working very closely with the WORC department in relation to the offences as well.