With drugs flowing through the continent’s ports in vast quantities, the European Commission has decided to create the European Ports Alliance bringing together all relevant public and private actors in the fight against drugs smuggling and criminal infiltration of logistics hubs. It mobilises member states, local authorities, law enforcement authorities including customs, EU agencies, and private actors operating in the ports with the aim of strengthening risk management and implementing more targeted and effective controls in ports including through funding state-of-the-art equipment that can help customs authorities scan containers and other means of transport and strengthening law enforcement operations in ports. “Europe has now replaced the US as the single largest cocaine market in the world and is fast becoming a world hub for drug trafficking – a disturbing claim to fame and one we have to redouble efforts to reverse,” said Margaritis Schinas, vice president for Promoting our European Way of Life. “Today we are announcing a new series of measures to enhance the resilience of logistical hubs and dismantle criminal networks. This will be complemented by strong engagement with partners worldwide to crack down on the main supply routes.” More than $220m will be spent on adding scanning equipment at ports. At Antwerp, the drug cartels’ favoured European port, authorities have vowed to get all high-risk containers scanned by 2028.

LINK: https://seafarertimes.com/2020-21/node/8666