Chang calls for better border control systems in the region
Published:Tuesday | May 16, 2023 | 11:30 AM
Minister of National Security, Dr Horace Chang, has urged regional immigration and customs officials to establish seamless border control systems to help stem transnational organised crime and other criminal activities within the region.
Chang made the call while addressing the opening session of the 26th Meeting of the Caribbean Community (CARICOM) Standing Committees of Chiefs of Immigration and Comptrollers of Customs in Montego Bay, St James this morning.
He argued stronger border control systems are critical as transnational crimes within the region are supported by illegal trade and manipulation of these systems.
According to the national security minister, the long-term consequences of these criminal activities damage countries' social and economic development, degrade governance systems and erode trust in public institutions.
“As a community, we must continue to organise, pool resources where possible, and integrate systems that will allow us to leverage information and intelligence to improve regional cooperation on security,” said Chang.
He said the standing committees remain one of the most critical mechanisms for improving the general security and safety of the region.
- Albert Ferguson
Follow The Gleaner on Twitter and Instagram @JamaicaGleaner and on Facebook @GleanerJamaica. Send us a message on WhatsApp at 1-876-499-0169 or email us at onlinefeedback@gleanerjm.com or editors@gleanerjm.com.