The Cyprus Ports and Marine Police have recently acquired three new advanced Category B vessels named “Pentadaktylos,” “Kantara,” and “Keryneia I,” equipped with state-of-the-art navigation, communication systems, and thermal cameras for improved maritime surveillance and safety. This significant boost to their maritime operations aims to enhance the CPMP’s watch over the Republic of Cyprus’s territorial waters and safeguard its coastline and maritime borders.
What new vessels have the Cyprus Ports and Marine Police recently acquired?
The Cyprus Ports and Marine Police have recently acquired three new advanced Category B vessels named “Pentadaktylos,” “Kantara,” and “Keryneia I,” equipped with state-of-the-art navigation, communication systems, and thermal cameras for improved maritime surveillance and safety.
Introduction to CPMP’s Fleet Expansion
In a significant boost to their maritime operations, the Cyprus Ports and Marine Police (CPMP) held a ceremonial event to unveil three newly-acquired vessels. This auspicious occasion took place at Limassol Port’s arrivals hall, marking a notable enhancement in CPMP’s maritime surveillance and protection capabilities.
Details of the Newly Acquired Vessels
The addition of these three Category B vessels represents a substantial step forward for the CPMP. The vessels, each with its own distinguished name— “Pentadaktylos,” “Kantara,” and “Keryneia I”—are equipped with advanced technological features. They boast state-of-the-art navigation and communication systems and are fitted with thermal cameras. These cameras are adept at detecting and pinpointing the locations of people and other vessels even from considerable distances, providing an edge in maritime safety and surveillance operations.
The Strategic Importance of the Vessels
During the ceremony, Anna Koukkidou-Prokopiou, the Minister of Justice and Public Order, took the opportunity to underscore the critical role of the CPMP. With a growing fleet and well-organized units, the CPMP stands at the forefront of safeguarding Cyprus’s coastline and maritime borders. The minister particularly highlighted the department’s efforts in thwarting illegal trafficking, preventing cross-border crime, and securing port infrastructure against various threats, including potential terrorist attacks.
Moreover, the CPMP’s responsibilities extend beyond law enforcement. They are instrumental in search and rescue missions within the coastal areas and open waters, often being first responders to maritime mishaps, thanks to their vessels and crews ready for action around the clock.
Remarks from the Chief of Police
The event also featured a speech by the Chief of Police, Stelios Papatheodorou, who expressed gratification over the strengthening of the CPMP’s operational capacity. He mentioned the increasing need for vigilance and proactive measures in the current regional climate, asserting the multifaceted and demanding nature of the CPMP’s mission. He also emphasized the ongoing enhancement of the CPMP with specialized personnel training and technological advancements.
Papatheodorou provided an insight into future expansions, revealing plans to introduce ten more Category C vessels to the CPMP fleet by 2024. Additionally, the replacement of older vessels, including four Category A and two Category B, is on the agenda for the upcoming years.
The Ceremony and Beyond
The ceremony was marked with traditional practices, including the blessing of the new vessels, and attendees were offered a guided tour to get a closer look at these sophisticated additions to the CPMP fleet. The procurement of the vessels was carried out within the framework of collaborative financial initiatives, specifically the Internal Security Fund and the Border Management and Visa Policy Support Instrument, with contributions from both the European Union and the Republic of Cyprus.
With this strategic enhancement of its maritime fleet, the CPMP is set to enhance its watch over the Republic of Cyprus’s territorial waters, indicating a more secure and protected marine environment for the nation.
The Cyprus Ports and Marine Police have gotten three new boats that will help them keep an eye on the waters around Cyprus. These boats are equipped with the latest technology, like cameras that can see in the dark and advanced navigation systems. The police will use these boats to make sure the country’s coastline and borders are safe. The police are also responsible for rescuing people who are in trouble at sea. This is just the beginning of the police’s plans to improve their fleet and keep Cyprus safe. The boats were bought with help from the European Union and the Republic of Cyprus.
