Campaign makes port staff resilient to criminal requests

A social media campaign has been launched in North Sea Port to encourage port workers to stay alert for signs that may indicate criminal activity. For example, when they receive a question that seems innocent but might not be.

Criminal organisations exploit legitimate businesses to smuggle drugs through the port. This is only possible with assistance from within. Criminals sometimes offer large sums of money to employees in exchange for minor favours. However, those who agree once often find it impossible to back out. The campaign targets specific situations encountered in the ports.

The campaign was launched under the umbrella of ‘Mainport Zeehavens Zeeland – West Brabant’. Everyone working in the ports of Moerdijk and North Sea Port (Terneuzen and Vlissingen/Borsele) may encounter the campaign through social media. Short videos illustrate how an apparently innocent criminal request can be and stress the importance of taking two seconds to think before answering. Running over three years, the campaign focuses on raising awareness, recognising the signs, building resilience, and reporting incidents with varied messages.

Criminals exploit gullibility or loyalty. With just one question, they can disrupt someone’s life. That is why it is crucial for employees to recognise warning signs and know what they can do. This campaign provides support in doing just that.

Companies can join the campaign by using the free communication toolkit. This is available on this campaign website.

The campaign is an initiative of Mainport Zeehavens Zeeland – West Brabant. The municipalities of Vlissingen, Borsele, Terneuzen, and Moerdijk, together with the Police, Public Prosecution Service, Customs, Royal Netherlands Marechaussee, Tax Authority, and the port companies Port of Moerdijk and North Sea Port, join forces to combat crime in the ports. One of the key focus areas is empowering staff and businesses to stand strong against undermining criminality.