New Port Control Unit installed to strengthen port security in Suriname

Security screening at the Jules Sedney Haven in Paramaribo is being continued with a newly formed Port Control Unit (PCU). On Thursday, 15 October 2026, the new members of this specialised unit were officially installed. The unit, which is part of a programme of the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC), is intended to contribute to combating transnational crime and strengthening security at the port.

The Port Control Unit consists of representatives of the Korps Politie Suriname (KPS), the Korps Militaire Politie (KMP), the Directoraat Nationale Veiligheid (DNV) and Customs. The unit is active at the Jules Sedney Haven, where it plays an important role in monitoring cargo flows and countering illegal activities.

The organisational and policy coordination of the PCU lies with the DNV, while judicial direction falls under the responsibility of the prosecutor-general.

UNODC positive about functioning of Surinamese port unit

The installation follows an evaluation and audit visit by Bo Shakira Harris, programme manager of the UNODC’s Passenger and Cargo Control Programme. She paid a working visit to Suriname at the end of July 2026 to assess the functioning of the existing port unit.

During this visit, the UN organisation expressed appreciation for the work of the Surinamese PCU. At the same time, arrangements were made for the replacement of members who had completed their terms and for the further strengthening of the organisation.

In this context, Cheqiel Muradin has been appointed as the new National Focal Point (NFP), who will serve as the national point of contact for the programme. The installation of a new Steering Committee is also planned.

Preparations for special control unit at airport

In addition to strengthening port controls, preparations have started for the establishment of a so-called AirCop Unit at the Johan Adolf Pengel International Airport.

This specialised unit is intended to support international cooperation and controls at the airport, with particular attention to detecting and countering transnational crime.

Integrity and discipline central

The official installation of the new PCU members was carried out on behalf of National Security Adviser Melvin Linscheer by Mark Karg. DNV deputy director Carmen van Dijk was also present at the ceremony.

Both officials stressed that the new members carry an important responsibility in safeguarding national security. Integrity, discipline, professionalism and quality were cited as essential principles for their work.

The new members were also given instructions in line with the National Strategic Security Plan 2026-2030 and the security priorities outlined by President Jennifer Geerlings-Simons in her annual address.

With the installation of the renewed Port Control Unit, Suriname is taking a further step in cooperation between national security agencies and international partners in combating transnational crime.