Pubdate: Wed, 10 Dec 2003
Source: Cyprus Mail, The (Cyprus)
Copyright: Cyprus Mail 2003
Contact:  http://www.cyprus-mail.com/
Details: http://www.mapinc.org/media/100
Author: Jean Christou

BASES STEP UP ANTI-SMUGGLING EFFORTS

BRITISH bases and Cyprus police have just completed an intelligence course 
to strengthen the clamp-down on smuggling from the north, the bases said 
yesterday.

"In order to ensure the boundary is effectively patrolled, it is of vital 
importance that SBA units forge a strong relationship with local forces," 
an announcement from the bases said.

The course targeted data analysis, car search, risk assessment and other 
skills needed effectively to patrol the crossing points through the bases. 
Ten officers, two from the Cyprus police, three from SBA customs and five 
from the SBA police took part in the course.

Last month, the bases recruited 12 new members to their customs team to 
combat the increase in smuggling.

Since crossing restrictions were lifted in April this year, bases officials 
have seized more than 350,000 cigarettes, plus beer, spirits and commercial 
goods, such as mobile phones and DVD players.

But the biggest concern is the potential for serious drugs smuggling at the 
crossing points of Pergamos and Strovilia, which are within bases jurisdiction.

"With the addition of 12 new staff employed at the Pergamos crossing point 
last month, the SBA have sent out a clear message to anyone intent on 
smuggling illegal goods into the south," the announcement yesterday said.

Brian Collins, an international trainer and intelligence team leader in the 
UK was positive about the inroads made during the first joint intelligence 
course. "I am very impressed with the way the SBA police, Customs and 
Cyprus police have worked together during this course," he said. "I am 
confident that. you will see big changes in the way smuggling is dealt with."

Collins said part of the course involved being able to tell which kinds of 
vehicles were better for smuggling and to be aware of these when they 
approached the checkpoints.

"There are many other tactics that these people use and by briefing 
everyone on them, it will make it easier to carry out a full risk 
assessment at the scene," he said.