Security alert level at Pusan Port increased

Pusan Port increased security as the possibility that Iraqi terrorists may strike against Korean ships increased.

Pusan Regional Maritime & Fisheries Office announced July 13 that it strengthened security guard activity for ships and port facilities from the lowest alert level up one stop as a precaution against Iraqi terrorists threatening domestic ships.

To this, visitor inspections increased from 10% to 30% at Pusan Port.
The Pusan Port Management Corporation responsible for security of the port positioned a strike force at Jasungdae wharf, Gamman wharf and Shinsundae wharf to strengthen inspections of 30% of container trucks, 50% of trucks over 2.5 tons and all trucks below 2.5 tons.

Pusan Regional Maritime & Fisheries Office requested that police position officers at main wharves according to the increased demand for security coming in part from antiwar demonstrations against sending troops to Iraq.

An insider from the office said, “Pusan Port will struggle with smooth logistics when the security alert level increases,” and added, “so when we consider about this, the alert level should increase when signs of terrorist activity come into sight.”

Meanwhile, the Pusan Maritime Police Station positioned coastal defense ships in the main route of Pusan Port and operated inspections of suspect vessels. Also, it runs a 24-hour patrol system with police boats.