As one of the most important private ports in Brazil, Porto Sudeste carried out a security drill with the Federal Police this week

Partnership with Conportos and Federal Police tests and improves port security protocols

O Southeast Port, a renowned name in the port industry, joined forces with the National Commission for Public Security in Ports, Terminals and Waterways (Conportos) and the Federal Police, on Wednesday, July 26th. This union served to execute a Simulated Exercise of Illicit Seizure of Ship (ESAIN), thus evaluating the efficiency of the Port Security Plan in a fictitious scenario of invasion of the terminal.

The exercise also had the support of the Special Nucleus of Maritime Police of the Regional Superintendence of Federal Police in the State of Rio de Janeiro. With the mission of ensuring prevention and combating illegal acts in ports, terminals and waterways, the event aimed to reinforce collaboration between public and private entities.

The importance of regular testing and cooperation

Marcelo João, delegate of the Federal Police and leader of the exercise, highlighted the relevance of the activity, stating: “Maritime security is a responsibility of the Federal Police, and the intention of this simulation is to establish a routine of exercises in the main ports of the country. This will equip us with the leadership needed to respond quickly and efficiently. As port facilities are complex and involve many actors, it is crucial that we know the side of the private sector, and that they are aware of our capacity and challenges.”

During the event, federal officials simulated a terminal invasion in a hostage scenario. The exercise served to assess the effectiveness of security protocols in practice, as well as to understand the impacts of maritime elements on security, defense, economy and environment.

Technology as an ally in port security

Porto Sudeste's monitoring system was fully operational throughout the event. Marcelo João emphasized the importance of technology, stating that it played a significant role in the exercise.

Alex Gatto, Asset Security Manager for Porto Sudeste, said that the simulation was essential to test the effectiveness of the Port Security Plan. He mentioned, “This exercise was a great opportunity to put our contingency protocols in place. We continuously invest in new technologies and in training our professionals, and I think this was evident in today's simulation.”

Porto Sudeste is a member of a select global group of ports that meet the safety requirements of the International Maritime Organization (IMO). The International Code for Ship and Port Facility Security (ISPS Code) is a crucial protocol that guides threat assessment and defines appropriate security actions for ships and port facilities.

A ports and the State Commissions for Public Security in Ports (Cesportos), coordinated by the Federal Police, are essential in building adequate security protocols for Brazilian port complexes, in addition to complying with the ISPS Code. This code requires continuous and effective cooperation between the public and private sectors involved in the maritime and port universe, to detect security threats and take preventive measures against incidents that affect ships or port facilities.