During this joint operation, a total of 255 vessels were intercepted and searched, 573 people questioned, and three unlicensed vessels were detained, among other results.

The operation, code-named "Derrick", was conducted between December 7 and 10, with Marine North Division, Marine East Division, Marine Harbour Division, Small Boat Division, Marine Regional Command and Control Centre, Crime Marine Regional Headquarters and Marine Police Training School (deployment of the Regional Training Launch PL 3) participating.

Besides the Customs and Excise Department and the Guangdong Customs, the Agriculture, Fisheries and Conservation Department also assisted in the operation.

Given Mirs Bay's geographical proximity to the Mainland and the demand for electronic goods, etc. on the Mainland, countering cross-boundary smuggling of electrical appliances, computer parts, VCDs and vehicle parts in Mirs Bay is one of the ongoing top priorities of Marine Region.

The Marine Outer Waters District Commander, Mr Michael Parker, who was field commander of the joint operation, told OffBeat: "The main objective of the joint operation with the Hong Kong Customs and the Guangdong Customs was to suppress smuggling in Mirs Bay with particular emphasis on the use of speedboats in smuggling. It has come to our attention that Hong Kong registered cargo vessels are being used to convey contraband to Mirs Bay where the goods are cross loaded onto speedboats, which then head for the Mainland.

"Many of these speedboats are licensed in Hong Kong as pleasure craft and are fitted with single or twin high-powered outboard engines capable of reaching speeds in excess of 45 knots (83 km/h). However, their design is more suitable for the conveyance of goods at high speed rather than for pleasure purposes. In addition it has become apparent that a small number of fish farms are connected to smuggling activities.

"The operation was mounted in tandem with our ongoing 'Winter Precautions' and took the form of an overt police presence in the Mirs Bay and Kat O areas of Marine North Division. The Regional Training Launch, PL 3, was also deployed as a forward operating platform with co-coordinated support from Hong Kong and Mainland Customs.

"During the operation, cargo handling areas were also checked, as were boatyards and fish farms which can be used for hiding HK registered speedboats," he added.

Speaking of the other results of the operation, Mr Parker said 52 fish farms were checked with 27 warning letters issued to their owners for causing or permitting vessels to enter or remain in fish culture zones, one person was arrested for non-payment of fine, and 21 summonses were issued for a variety of breach of vessel licensing conditions.

He pointed out that the operation was very successful in suppressing smuggling, reflecting the very high level of commitment and co-operation between the Hong Kong and Mainland agencies who are actively working together to identify and implement measures to more effectively counter smuggling."We will continue maintaining a high level of vigilance in Mirs Bay, and will be mounting more joint operations!" he pledged.

A high speed craft seized in a smuggling arrest