Cabin searches to continue

The government has quashed rumours that law enforcement searches of cruise ship cabins in Bermuda might cease.

A spokeswoman of Premier Michael Dunkley, who is also Bermuda’s National Security Minister, said many passenger cabin searches are initiated by the cruise vessel’s security personnel, who request that HM Customs Officers carry out the search. Other passenger cabin searches are initiated by Customs Officers as a result of specific intelligence or sometimes after the observation by Customs Officers of suspicious behaviour of either passengers or crew members.

“Often, cruise ship's Security are alerted to possible presence of contraband in a cabin by other passengers. Typically in such cases Customs Officers carry out passenger cabin searches only where a Customs drug detector dog gives a positive alert to its handler for the presence of illegal drugs,” said the spokeswoman through an email. “It is also important to note that passenger cabin searches are always carried out in the presence of the relevant passengers and ship's Security and are done with the utmost respect of the passengers.”

In response to queries regarding HM Customs search protocols, Mr Dunkley said ensuring the protection of Bermuda's ports and borders is a key priority. In the past, crew members, according to the premier’s spokeswoman, have been known to hide large quantities of illegal drugs in unsuspecting cruise passengers’ cabins.

The Ministry recognizes that the subject of Customs› searches is a somewhat sensitive matter. However, the Ministry advised that these protocols will remain in place and assures the public that when these procedures do occur, HM Customs operate at all times within their legal authority,” she said. “Furthermore, it is the aim of HM Customs to be as professional and respectful as possible while executing their duties to safeguard Bermuda.