New €9m Customs Cutter Boosts Anti-Drug Efforts
A newly launched €9 million Customs cutter, named ‘Cosaint,’ is set to enhance anti-smuggling patrols along the Cork coast in the coming weeks. This initiative has garnered support from maritime experts, including former naval officer Eugene Ryan, who emphasizes the critical role of Revenue and Customs officials in combating international drug trafficking. With advanced capabilities, the cutter aims to strengthen Ireland’s maritime security and tackle the growing drug crisis.
Strengthening Maritime Security Against Drug Trafficking
The introduction of the ‘Cosaint’ cutter marks a significant advancement in Ireland’s fight against drug smuggling. Eugene Ryan, a former navy commander and founding member of the international drug trafficking surveillance center MAOC (N), highlights the extensive maritime powers held by Revenue’s Customs Service. These powers allow officials to operate up to 50 nautical miles offshore, significantly extending their reach compared to the Gardaí, who are limited to 12 miles within Irish territorial waters.
Ryan notes that the joint task force, comprising Customs officials, gardaí, and the naval service, has successfully executed major operations, including the historic seizure of over 2.25 tonnes of cocaine from the MV Matthew. This operation showcased the capabilities of the task force, which includes armed army ranger wing officers who intervened in challenging conditions. Despite these successes, Ryan warns that drug traffickers are continuously evolving their methods, employing unmanned semi-submersibles capable of carrying large drug shipments across the Atlantic.
These sophisticated vessels can navigate using satellite technology, making it increasingly difficult for authorities to intercept them. Ryan advocates for an increase in the number of Customs ships patrolling the coast, suggesting that a minimum of three to four vessels should be operational at all times to effectively dismantle drug trafficking routes. He believes that with the right resources and intelligence, the flow of drugs into Ireland can be significantly reduced.
Investment in Resources and Future Challenges
The ‘Cosaint’ cutter, measuring 35 meters in length with a gross tonnage of 204 tonnes, is designed to replace the older RCC Suirbhéir, which has been in service since 2004. Funded by the Exchequer and a grant from the European Anti-Fraud Office, the new vessel boasts a range of over 750 nautical miles and a top speed of 18 knots. Revenue’s Niall Cody has praised the enforcement teams for their exceptional results, reporting over 35,000 seizures of illegal drugs since January 2023, totaling 110 tonnes with an estimated value exceeding €650 million.
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Despite these advancements, Ryan emphasizes that Ireland is still facing a significant challenge in curbing the influx of drugs. He points out that drug-producing countries like Mexico, Venezuela, and Colombia continue to increase their output, knowing that some shipments will inevitably be intercepted. The ongoing recruitment and training of naval officers remain a concern, as many have left for better-paying jobs in other sectors. Ryan calls for a renewed commitment to maritime security, stating that without adequate resources, the battle against drug trafficking will continue to be an uphill struggle.
