Changwon Coast Guard and US Navy Jinhae Base: "Strict Response to International Maritime Crimes"

Changwon Maritime Police Station in Gyeongnam and the U.S. Navy Jinhae Base Command (CFAC) joined forces to address international maritime crime and enhance maritime security.

Changwon Maritime Police announced on the 28th that Chief Kim Youngcheol and U.S. Navy Jinhae Base Commander James A. Dipasquale discussed cooperation on these matters.

Officials including Kim Youngcheol, Chief of Changwon Coast Guard Station, and the Deputy Commander of the U.S. Navy Jinhae Unit visited the Masanhang Marine Traffic Control Center (VTS) in Changwon, Gyeongnam, to receive a briefing on current operations. Photo by Changwon Coast Guard Station

According to the maritime police, Chief Kim and Commander Dipasquale exchanged views on measures to maintain maritime security in response to maritime crimes and accidents occurring within their jurisdiction.

They agreed on the importance of cooperation between the two organizations in responding to international maritime crimes such as foreigner-related offenses, drug trafficking, and illegal immigration, and pledged to strengthen their joint efforts.

At the front of the Gyeongnam Changwon Coast Guard Criminal Mobile Unit boat, Chief Kim Youngcheol (center) and U.S. Navy Jinhae Base officials are taking a commemorative photo. Photo by Changwon Coast Guard Station

Afterwards, Commander Dipasquale inspected a 100-ton criminal investigation patrol vessel and visited the Masan Port Vessel Traffic Service Center (VTS), where he was briefed on the importance of monitoring VHF channel 14 when the U.S. Navy enters or leaves Jinhae Port, thereby gaining a better understanding of the maritime police's duties and operations.

Chief Kim stated, "We will respond firmly to maritime crimes occurring at sea to protect our maritime territory and ensure the safety of our citizens," and added, "We will maintain a close cooperative system with the U.S. Navy Jinhae Base Command."