The School of Maritime Operations (SMOPS) has held an opening ceremony to commence the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) Visit, Board, Search and Seizure (VBSS) Basic Course on Monday, 23 February 2026, at the SMOPS Auditorium, Naval Training Command (NAVTRAC), Nutekpor.
The two-week course aims at enhancing participants’ capacity to conduct VBSS operations effectively in support of maritime security and the fight against transnational organised crime at sea. It is designed to strengthen operational skills, promote inter-agency cooperation, and improve coordination in maritime law enforcement operations.
In his remarks, the Commanding Officer of SMOPS, Naval Captain Michael Cudjoe, welcomed the participants to NAVTRAC and underscored the complexity of the maritime environment. He noted that maritime crime is largely transnational in nature and requires collective effort and collaboration among nations to combat it effectively.
Naval Captain Cudjoe urged participants to demonstrate professionalism and discipline throughout the course, while fostering teamwork and mutual respect. He also encouraged them to share experiences and exchange ideas, noting that many maritime security challenges are common across countries and can be better addressed through cooperation.
He further highlighted the importance of Harmonised Standard Operating Procedures, explaining that such frameworks enable countries within the sub-region to conduct joint maritime operations seamlessly.
The course forms part of ongoing efforts to strengthen maritime security capacity and enhance regional cooperation in the fight against maritime crime.
