SBDIV plays host to Singapore officers
Four Singapore Police Coast Guard (SPCG) officers recently visited Small Boat Division (SBDIV) to take a look at the unit's roles, tactics and day-to-day operations.The officers - Acting Inspector Koh Kim-seng, Station Inspector Muhammad Uzair Bin Haron, Senior Staff Sergeant Chong Seng-heng and Staff Sergeant Lee Wei-tat - spent five days with Marine Region from October 18 to 22 under a regular reciprocal attachment programme, which aims at providing officers from both places with an opportunity to learn the different approaches to common maritime law enforcement issues.
On October 18, Acting Superintendent Mark Anstiss and training officers welcomed their guests and gave a briefing on SBDIV's roles, day-to-day operations, equipment, training, vessels, and safety matters. After the briefing, the SPCG officers boarded a Damen Cougartek High Speed Interceptor and a Fast Pursuit Craft (FPC) to take a close look at the vessels' onboard navigation and engine systems.
The next day, after learning the underway and alongside theories, the SPCG officers experienced the high speed manoeuvring of SBDIV small craft when they boarded an FPC in Marine West Division for training on targeting a fast vessel and a river trade vessel. They enjoyed the sharp turns and speedy ride though they all got wet during the training.
On October 20, the SPCG officers returned for night-time training on board a high-speed interceptor in Marine East Division. This was an exciting opportunity for them to experience the high-speed interception of a vessel in complete darkness under rough sea conditions during the winter monsoon. They also learned how good communication and radar support play a vital role in ensuring navigational safety and operational effectiveness. After the training, they were impressed with SBDIV's advanced radar and communication systems and well-coordinated tactics.
Following the attachment, Acting Inspector Koh attended a Marine Outer Waters District mess night to celebrate the Battle of Trafalgar, a traditional maritime custom. It was another good opportunity for him to share experiences with Marine Region officers in a relaxed setting after the hectic attachment programme.
During their attachment, the Singaporean officers also visited Marine North Division, Marine Regional Headquarters and Trial and Maintenance Unit. Before their departure, they viewed the attachment programme as an excellent opportunity for officers of Hong Kong and Singapore to learn from each other, and to forge closer ties in future.
Singapore
Police Coast Guard officers have got a good idea of Small Boat
Division's roles and day-to-day operations