The department recently received a vessel which will serve to increase its surveillance operations.

Minister of Finance with responsibility for the Customs, Ronnie Skelton said the new vessel acquired by the customs is the latest initiative in the department’s efforts to fulfill its mandate of improving surveillance and protecting the Territory’s borders.

Customs dedicated the $350,000 vessel, named “Predator,” at a recent ceremony.

Skelton said the purchase of the vessel is the latest of Government’s measures to further contain criminal activity in the Territory in keeping with its legislative agenda. Speaking at the ceremony, the Minister said the vessel will be a formidable tool in protecting Territory’s shores and people against illegal activity.

“To date, I am pleased with the great strides made by the Customs Department in the areas of law enforcement as we see by the various seizures and apprehensions,” he said. “I am also very pleased with the growth in revenues collected for import duties and taxes.”

The Minister said with the implementation of the Customs Management Act, which is currently being drafted, and the Customs Automated Processing systems (CAPS), he is confident that the department will continue to be a “shining star” in the public service.

Skelton said he has observed with a sense of pride the manner in which the Customs Mobile Task Force, the Flex Team and the K-9 unit have committed themselves to meeting the challenges they face.

The Minister pointed out that, with all that have been accomplished so far, he is confident that the comptroller and his staff will ensure that customs continues to improve. He said government expects nothing less than the highest levels of professionalism, efficiency and effectiveness in the execution of duties.

“Those of you that know me know that my expectations are high, and you also know that I will give the support necessary to ensure that the tools are available to meet these expectations,”Skelton said.

The Minister also encouraged customs officers to use the vessel with great care and maintenance in its operations. The vessel is designed for high speed performances and is one of the newest models of its type. It is equipped with night vision, radar and global positioning system technology.