UNODC-WCO Global Container Control Programme Enhances the Work of the Port Control Units in Kyrgyzstan

The United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) conducted an assessment mission of the Port Control Units (PCU) established under the UNODC and the World Customs Organization Global Container Control Programme (CCP) based in the State Customs Service under the Government of the Kyrgyz Republic's Central Apparatus in Bishkek and of the South-West Customs in Osh, Kyrgyzstan, from 11 to 13 March 2019.

The main purpose of the mission was to discuss the implementation of the UNODC - State Customs Service joint activities and plans for further cooperation, as well as visit Port Control Units in Bishkek and Osh cities to evaluate their operations.

During the mission, UNODC handed over specialized equipment, as well as methodological manuals on Customs control for CITES-controlled goods to the Port Control Units in Bishkek and Osh cities.

"We highly appreciate UNODC efforts in strengthening international cooperation aimed at implementing comprehensive Customs control measures, identifying illegal movement of goods and vehicles, as well as creating favorable conditions for the business community engaged in international trade", said Mr. Altynbek Torutaev, Deputy Chairman of the State Customs Service under the Government of the Kyrgyz Republic.

The implementation of the UNODC-WCO Global Container Control Programme in the Kyrgyz Republic started in 2016, and since then more than 100 customs officers, including members of the Port Control Units have been trained in various topics on profiling, identifying and suppressing high-risk consignments using modern Customs control techniques. UNODC rendered technical assistance to PCUs, including refurbishment works of the provided premises, office and specialized equipment, inspection tools and handed over vehicles.

UNODC efforts and the Port Control Units operations in Bishkek and Osh cities resulted in seizures of narcotic substances, identification of cases of smuggling of tobacco products, prevention of facts of mis-declaration of goods.

UNODC-WCO Global Container Control Programme helps to strengthen supply chain security and trade facilitation in seaports, airports and land border crossings in order to prevent the trafficking of illicit goods.

UNODC-WCO Global Container Control Programme Regional Segment for Central Asia is funded by the Government of Japan, the U.S. Department of State Bureau of International Narcotics and Law Enforcement Affairs (INL) and the Export Control and Related Border Security (EXBS) Program. 

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cell. +996 775 98 78 17, e-mail: vasilina.brazhko[at]unodc.org