BOSTON- The Coast Guard hosted a multi-agency strike force operation, Thursday, focused on inspecting container shipments in the Port of Boston.
The operation gave crews from various agencies the chance to work together and better understand each other’s port security protocols and capabilities.
Nineteen state, federal, and local agencies established three checkpoints around the port that are known to have high concentrations of container traffic. Throughout the day, 133 containers were inspected by the crews.
“Operations like these ensure the safety and security of our nation’s ports,” Bruce M. Foucart, special agent in charge of U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s Office of Investigations in Boston. “ICE is proud to support DHS partner agencies and the Massachusetts State Police in this joint public safety endeavor.”
Coast Guard crews focused on the inspection of international hazardous material shipments, ensuring proper packaging and loading in compliance with the International Convention for Safe Containers.
“The intent of Thursday’s operation was to enhance inter-agency effectiveness and share each other’s unique expertise,” said Lt. Heidi Miller, the MASFO coordinator at Coast Guard Sector Boston. “By reinforcing inter-agency efforts we can minimize redundancies, improve inspections, and ensure a more secure port.”
