MUSCAT: Across 3,165 km of Oman coastline, the vigilant eyes of the coastguard police remain wide awake to safeguard the Sultanate of Oman’s territorial waters. Extending from the Arabian Gulf and the Strait of Hormuz in the north to the Arabian Sea in the south, via the Sea of Oman, these forces stand guard at every nautical mile to defend the nation's sovereignty and extend vital assistance to vessels in distress.
Brigadier Abdulaziz bin Mohammed al Jabri, Commander the Coast Guard Police emphasised that the headquarter plays a pivotal role in reinforcing the Royal Oman Police (ROP) efforts to maintain security and public order. Through its network of stations deployed along the entire coastline, the coastguard secures Oman’s maritime domain and sea ports to ensure the safety of maritime navigation.
In a statement to Oman newspaper, the Coastguard Commander noted that the unit's responsibilities encompass conducting maritime surveillance, apprehending smugglers and infiltrators, and thwarting illegal trafficking operations. This is in addition to providing maritime search and rescue services and aiding ships and marine units facing emergencies at sea. The headquarter also acts a crucial role in expanding cautiousness among tourists, fishermen, and sea-goers. It issues awareness publications containing maritime safety guidelines and mandatory pre-sailing checklists.
Also, Brigadier Al Jabri said that Coast Guard Police relies on highly qualified personnel trained to the highest international maritime standards. It also possesses an advanced system of equipment, including patrol boats, interceptor boats, and surveillance vessels. These are equipped with the latest navigation systems, modern tracking technologies, and advanced communication devices that guarantee rapid response times.
He added that over the past year, the headquarter executed several high-quality operations. These resulted in thwarting infiltration attempts and the smuggling of illicit substances across the territorial waters of the Sultanate of Oman, responding to distress calls from marine vessels, and detecting illegal fishing violations, with legal action taken against offenders. Joint campaigns with competent authorities have also strengthened maritime oversight and enhanced compliance with laws regulating living aquatic resources.
Brigadier al Jabri pointed out that the headquarter places great emphasis on combatting transnational maritime crimes, such as drug trafficking and other cross-border illegal activities. This is achieved by intensifying patrols and tightening surveillance along the coasts and sea ports. These efforts have successfully foiled multiple crimes before reaching the shores, reflecting the Sultanate of Oman’s commitment to international agreements on maritime security and safety. In cases where violations or illegal activities are suspected, necessary legal measures are taken, including seizing the vessel or escorting it to the nearest port for further legal proceedings.
Brigadier al Jabri concluded by stressing the importance of sea-goers adhering to safety measures before embarking on fishing trips or sea excursions, urging them to verify the readiness of their boats, safety equipment, and communication tools, and to inform their families of their destination and expected return time to facilitate search operations in emergencies. He strictly cautioned against approaching transit ships in territorial or international waters, or meeting foreign fishing boats at sea, as such actions could raise suspicions related to smuggling or other illicit activities.
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