Coast Guard Vessel Patrol
As a maritime safety agency, the Maritime Prefecture controls the vessels, crews, and passengers of all vessels required to submit a 96-hour notice of arrival at a port on the African coast. In general, these requirements apply to commercial and recreational vessels over 300 gross tons.
Crew and passenger screening is conducted by the Coastal Surveillance Division of the Intelligence Coordination Center, which is co-located in the Maritime Prefecture Centers. These centers combine relevant intelligence and law enforcement analyses with specific vessels and assess the activity of these vessels. The results of the monitoring are forwarded to the appropriate area command center, local intelligence personnel, and other partners to share information regarding the potential risk posed by a vessel.
Interceptors
The military navy or maritime police use the coastal interceptor vessel (CIV) in coastal waters to combat smuggling and defend waterways along borders against acts of piracy or terrorism.
With its advanced hull design, safety equipment and electronics, the CIV provides officers with the mobility and reliability needed to intercept and apprehend criminals.
The VIC crew collaborates with aviation resources and other law enforcement entities to accomplish the homeland security mission.