Jamaica to acquire 24 interceptor vessels for maritime border patrol
/ Our Today
administrator
Prime Minister Dr Andrew Holness says the Government is moving to acquire 24 surface interceptor vessels this year.
These are high-speed, specialised boats designed for rapid maritime interception and patrol, often used for counter-narcotics operations, maritime security, and border patrol.
During his contribution to the 2025-26 Budget Debate in the House of Representatives on Thursday (March 20), Holness disclosed that the acquisition will strengthen the protection of Jamaica’s maritime borders and blue economy.
“Our borders are more secure than ever, due in large part, to new patrol vessels, helicopters, maritime patrol aircraft, and other technical equipment we procured for the Jamaica Defence Force (JDF). They are now better equipped to interdict illicit vessels and aircraft trafficking weapons, narcotics and people,” he noted.
He informed that the Government has been investing in advanced scanners and security protocols at all areas at Jamaica Customs, noting that the result is evidenced by major gun finds at the country’s ports in recent times.
The Jamaica Constabulary Force (JCF) is reporting the seizure of 30 firearms and more than 100 rounds of ammunition at a warehouse on Marcus Garvey Drive in Kingston on Tuesday (March 18).
Over the past four months, the police and Jamaica Customs Agency (JCA) have seized 148 illegal firearms and approximately 8,000 assorted rounds shipped to legitimate ports of entry.
“I would like to acknowledge Jamaica Customs for their increased vigilance and generally commend the security forces and our partners for increased cooperation and intelligence sharing, which has yielded great results. Every weapon and ammunition kept off our street is potentially a life saved,” the prime minister said.
He noted that most illicit weapons, which fuel gang violence, enter Jamaica through formal ports of entry.
The prime minster told Parliament that a Customs Mutual Assistance Agreement with the United States (US) is being finalised, which will enable even greater intelligence sharing to strengthen port security and protect the country’s national and economic interests.
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