Anti-drugs policy

Port of Antwerp-Bruges is a gateway to Europe. Antwerp and Zeebrugge are surrounded by an extensive network of international motorways, which gives access to millions of potential consumers within a few hours' drive time.

Unfortunately, the advantages that make Port of Antwerp-Bruges an easily accessible world port also mean it has to contend with a portion of the international drug traffic. Drugs arriving here are not only destined for the Belgian market; much of it is transported illegally to other European countries. Moreover, drug smugglers need large, efficient ports to make their contraband less conspicuous in the mass of other products and to get it out of the port faster.

In February 2023, the Belgian and Dutch governments and five major shipping companies committed to jointly step up the fight against drug crime. Specifically, they are taking additional measures such as the use of 'smart' containers and container seals, the recruitment of additional staff in customs and police, screening of port employees by security services, information exchange and higher international security standards. Here are the seven concrete measures:

Here are the seven concrete measures:

1. With the appointment of Ine Van Wymersch, there is a federal drugs commissioner since March 2023 to coordinate efforts against drug crime at least until 2028.
2. The Federal Maritime Police in Antwerp will be strengthened, including through the establishment of a Port Security Corps with a 24/7 visible presence in the port.
3. Local authorities will be given more powers to tackle businesses involved in money laundering. Port of Antwerp-Bruges is also betting on this. This includes revoking the ISPS certificate of terminals that systematically fail to comply with the ISPS code.
4. There will be bigger fines of up to €1,000 - three times more than before - for using cocaine. Alternative penalties will include a rehabilitation course.
5. There will be better and more scanners so customs can check all suspicious containers at the port. Customs is recruiting 108 additional staff for the Antwerp port platform. The first of these additional scanners are now being commissioned.
6. The 16,000 people working in the Belgian ports will be subjected to stricter screenings, similar to what already happens at airports. This screening will look not only at criminal records, but also at other databases, people's financial situation and their contacts. 
7. Belgian Justice will cooperate more closely with foreign justice forces and foreign governments, including those of the United Arab Emirates. Belgium has concluded several treaties with the Gulf state, including on the extradition of suspects and criminals. 

Collaboration

The City of Antwerp, the Antwerp-Bruges Port Authority, the local and federal police, judicial services, customs, the Harbour Master's Office, companies at the port, including the container terminals and everyone who works at the port, all work together in the fight against international drug trafficking. In that context, the Port Authority also participates in foreign missions.

Physical security of container terminals and access control

The Harbour Master's Office oversees terminals' proper compliance with ISPS security procedures and obliges an access and registration policy for all businesses in the port. That way, people cannot just come and go as they please. In addition, the container terminal operators take extra measures to protect their employees, activities and company premises. They strictly supervise who has access.

Virtual secure port

Port of Antwerp-Bruges is aiming to create a digital ‘security network’ for the port. To this end, we are using cameras, sensors and various computer systems. The Certified Pick-Up platform, for example, ensures that the picking up of containers is digitally secured and that it is always possible to find out who picked up a particular container.

Awareness-raising among port staff

Drug gangs put pressure on port staff to help them with drug trafficking. Anyone who helps with drug smuggling at the port, in whatever way and for whatever reason, risks heavy prison sentences. and a port ban for up to twenty(!) years. This is why it is important to inform port staff of the dangers of drug trafficking and to protect them from criminal organisations. CEPA sensitizes port workers and makes them aware of the dangers of drug trafficking for their personal safety and the safety of their families.

'PortWatch' 'reporting point

How can you help to keep the port drug-free? By reporting suspicious situations! Your report could help the police with their investigation, meaning they can act in a more targeted and effective manner. Report suspicious situations anonymously at 'PortWatch'.

Port of Antwerp-Bruges is and will remain a safe port for ships and crews calling at our port. The partners (justice, judicial and maritime police, customs, the Antwerp-Bruges Port Authority and the private port community) are joining forces to reduce the illegal trade in cocaine through our port. 

There is no miracle solution to stop drug trafficking. This is why it is essential to tackle the drugs problem on several fronts at the same time. This is also included in the National Drug Policy which, under the coordination of Prof. Dr. Charlotte Colman, covers a wide range of actions including measures on drug demand, prevention, health, research and so on.