By Karen Robes Meeks
On Saturday, Alaska-based Coast Guard Cutter John McCormick conducted joint customs operations with a Customs and Border Protection enforcement officer five miles from the Dixon Entrance, a strait in the Pacific Ocean at the Canada and United States border.
Both were there to monitor the safety and security of mariners moving in the area and making sure customs documentation was completed when they entered US territorial waters.
“We want to identify northbound vessels and ensure proper reporting requirements so that we may properly vet passengers and crew for prior violations,” said CBP Enforcement Officer Gilbert Varela.
“Working with our partner agencies is essential in understanding each other’s roles when conducting law enforcement missions and prepares us for future events,” said Lt. Mike Moyseowicz, commanding officer of the cutter John McCormick. “The Coast Guard is committed to patrolling our maritime borders to ensure safety and compliance at all times.”