2023-11-10 21:30:49
The federal government has taken additional measures to secure customs services as part of the fight against organized drug-related crime, Finance Minister Vincent Van Peteghem (CD&V) announced on Friday evening. These measures relate in particular to a strengthening of the police presence at customs sites and during checks, as well as additional measures for securing seized drugs.
“The sharp increase in seizures and the constant evolution of the modus operandi of criminal organizations force us to adapt constantly and quickly to keep our security processes and procedures up to date,” declared Mr. Van Peteghem, after the attack, over the past week, of two dockers, on the site of a customs border post, in the ports of Antwerp.
According to the minister’s press release, the federal police will ensure increased security and carry out patrols at border inspection posts and during customs scanning, inspection and dismantling operations. The transport of seized drugs will also be carried out under close surveillance and storage will be ensured on a high security site guarded by Defense. The customs recruitment procedure will be accelerated and an access route reserved for incinerators will also be sought in consultation with the regional authorities.
“Beyond existing collaborations, the federal police will deploy additional teams, at the request and in support of customs, in order to strengthen the police presence near customs sites and controls,” commented the Minister of Customs. Interior Annelies Verlinden (CD&V). “In addition, customs agents will be able to continue to count on the specialized service of the federal police to escort and secure transport.”
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