2.9.5.1 GENERAL
Ships are a preferred target for drug smuggling as the smuggler will remain
undetected should the drugs be discovered and the blame will fall on the vessel
and her crew. Utmost vigilance is required in all ports, day and night, where
drug smuggling is known to occur.
Drugs may be smuggled
inside the vessel’s structure and accommodation
inside the vessel’s holds and amongst the cargo
inside vessel openings in the hull, such as cooling water suction
boxes
divers are known to weld receptacles to the vessel’s hull underwater
and to conceal drugs in rudder trunks. Air bubbles in the water around the
vessel may be an indication of any such activities.