Govt boosts maritime patrols with new boat to tackle illegal activities

DAR ES SALAAM: THE Prime Minister’s Office has handed over a patrol boat (PB SAILFISH) to Tanzania Shipping Agencies Corporation (TASAC), aimed at strengthening patrols to combat criminal activities in the seas and Great Lakes of the country.

These patrols are part of the efforts by the government to address criminal acts such as illegal fishing, human trafficking, drug trafficking, smuggling, and poaching of government resources.

Speaking at the handover ceremony held in Dar es Salaam, the Permanent Secretary in the Prime Minister’s Office (Policy, Parliament and Coordination), Dr Jim Yonaz said the boat would enhance the government’s efforts to combat crime.

“The government’s hope is to see this boat utilised appropriately for planned activities and those that may arise as needed,” he emphasised.

He also urged TASAC to use the boat in accordance with the National Guidelines for Combating Criminal Activities in the Sea and Great Lakes of 2022.

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Additionally, he urged the agency to continue collaborating closely with the Disaster Management Department in the Prime Minister’s Office to coordinate rescue programs for maritime disasters and overall maritime safety.

“Through the Prime Minister’s Office, collaborate with other sectoral institutions and develop a strategic plan for using this boat to combat maritime crime,” he stressed.

For his part, the Deputy Permanent Secretary of the Works Ministry, Mr Ludovick Nduhiye said that the boat arrives at an opportune time as it will not only enhance security in the open sea but also help regulate product quality and prevent inferior goods from passing through unofficial routes.

“This boat will also respond to the implementation of goals and efforts made by the Ministry of Works in collaboration with law enforcement organs and other stakeholders in the maritime transport sector to combat criminal activities along the coastal areas and great lakes,” he added.

TASAC’s Director General ,Mr Mohamed Salum said that the boat will facilitate crucial activities in implementing priorities for the project aimed at combating criminal activities in the seas and Great Lakes.

“This boat will also assist in executing TASAC’s legally mandated responsibilities, especially in managing safety, security, and environmental protection against pollution from shipping activities,” he added.

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