It is to strengthen maritime security operations.  

The course, is aimed at equipping participants with the requisite knowledge and practical skills to effectively conduct VBSS operations in support of maritime safety and the fight against transnational organised crime at sea.  

It is also expected to enhance operational competence, promote inter-agency collaboration and improve coordination in maritime law enforcement efforts within the sub-region, as well as bolster ongoing initiatives to build maritime security capacity and strengthen regional cooperation to combat maritime crime and enhance safety within the maritime domain.  

The Commanding Officer of SMOPS, Naval Captain Michael Cudjoe, in a welcome address, highlighted the complex nature of the maritime domain and noted that maritime crime remained largely transnational, requiring sustained cooperation among nations to address effectively.  

He urged participants to uphold professionalism and discipline throughout the training while fostering teamwork, mutual respect and knowledge sharing.  

Naval Captain Cudjoe also emphasised the importance of harmonised Standard Operating Procedures, explaining that such frameworks enabled countries to undertake joint maritime operations more effectively and seamlessly.  

Participants pledged their commitment to ensuring that they followed necessary frameworks throughout the training to enhance maritime security.