Joint operations between the US Coast Guard and Customs and Border Protection (CBP) at the Port of New York and New Jersey have revealed alarming compliance issues, with a 60% deficiency rate in inspections of dangerous materials. Utilizing container screening data, these efforts aim to pinpoint undeclared hazardous cargo that poses risks to port safety and crew.
Recent enhancements in cooperation between CBP and the Coast Guard have shown positive results, notably during a five-day multi-agency operation in February 2023. This initiative led to the seizure of eight undeclared dangerous material containers and the interception of 33 stolen vehicles valued at over $2.4 million, demonstrating the agencies’ commitment to preventing potential disasters.
Lt. Cmdr. Paul Civita highlighted how CBP’s targeted approaches enable quicker, more precise actions. The operations underscore the critical importance of monitoring freight to ensure compliance, as improperly documented hazardous materials threaten not only port workers and maritime crews but also broader national security.
These measures are crucial in light of past accidents, such as a July 2023 fire on the Large Ivory Coast, which resulted in the tragic deaths of two firefighters. In response, the Coast Guard continues to bolster partnerships aimed at enhancing port safety and combating illegal activities within maritime shipping routes.
Share it now
