Customs receives new specialised vehicles

Border security in the British Virgin Islands has been further strengthened as government awarded three highly specialised vehicles to Her Majesty’s Customs last evening.

Government is said to have purchased the vehicles to enhance Custom’s K-9 Unit, which is part of the recently-instituted Joint Task Force.

Speaking on the occasion, Premier Andrew Fahie said the vehicles will help to make the jobs of the K-9 Unit safer and help them to be more effective.

“The safety of our people comes first and as a government we continue to ensure that our Customs officers have the necessary equipment to assist them with their daily responsibilities in law enforcement and border security,” the Premier started.

“I thank all the law enforcement officers of the Joint Task Force for their continued dedication to protecting lives. This joint partnership indeed allows for full engagement in the territory’s capacity and capability in strengthening and improving security upon our territorial waters and on land throughout the islands,” he added.

Commissioner of Customs Wade Smith said the support from government is vital.

He said the K-9 Unit comprises of experienced personnel who are at top of their game in “detecting contraband and humans from entering the Virgin Islands through thorough inspections of containers, cargo and passengers transported via land, air or sea.”

In the meantime, the Joint Task Force is a collaboration between officers of Her Majesty’s Customs, the Immigration Department, and the Royal Virgin Islands Police Force.