Policy for Enhanced Screening of Shipping Containers at Ports of Entry
Purpose To establish an effective and efficient protocol for the detection of human trafficking and other illicit activities within shipping containers entering ports of entry through the implementation of advanced density X-ray scanning technology.
Background Human trafficking and smuggling operations have increasingly utilized shipping containers to transport victims. There are credible reports of screams and other evidence suggesting human presence within these containers. This policy aims to address this concern by deploying advanced screening technology to identify and intercept such activities without disrupting the flow of legitimate commerce.
Scope This policy applies to all shipping containers entering ports of entry, regardless of their origin, destination, or carrier.
Policy Statement
- Implementation of Advanced Scanning Technology
- All shipping containers entering the port of entry will undergo mandatory screening using density X-ray technology capable of detecting anomalies consistent with the presence of human beings or other illicit contents.
- The X-ray systems must have the capability to differentiate between organic and inorganic materials, enabling accurate detection without compromising container contents.
- Inspection Protocol
- Containers flagged by the density X-ray system as suspicious will undergo secondary inspection by a specialized human trafficking task force.
- Secondary inspection will involve:
- Visual inspection.
- Deployment of sensitive audio detection equipment if necessary.
- Collaboration with canine units trained to detect human presence.
- Emergency Response Measures
- Containers found to contain trafficked individuals will be immediately referred to local law enforcement and federal agencies for rescue operations.
- Victims will receive immediate medical and psychological assistance from on-site personnel trained to handle trafficking victims.
- Data Security and Privacy
- All scans and data collected will be securely stored and accessed only by authorized personnel to ensure the privacy of shippers and the integrity of the process.
- Training and Coordination
- Customs and Border Protection (CBP) personnel and relevant stakeholders will receive specialized training in the operation of density X-ray systems and the identification of trafficking indicators.
- Collaboration with international shipping organizations and port authorities will ensure seamless integration of the policy.
- Technology Maintenance and Updates
- Density X-ray systems will be regularly maintained and upgraded to ensure accuracy, efficiency, and reliability.
- Periodic reviews will assess the efficacy of the technology and recommend advancements.
Implementation Timeline
- Phase 1 (First 6 Months):
- Procurement and deployment of density X-ray systems at high-risk ports of entry.
- Initial training for personnel.
- Public awareness campaign for shipping companies and stakeholders.
- Phase 2 (6-12 Months):
- Full operational rollout across all major ports of entry.
- Routine audits and refinement of inspection protocols.
- Phase 3 (Ongoing):
- Expansion to smaller ports and monitoring effectiveness.
- Regular updates to technology and procedures.
Compliance and Accountability
- Failure to comply with this policy will result in penalties, including fines or suspension of shipping privileges for carriers.
- Regular audits will ensure adherence to protocols, and findings will be reported to federal oversight committees.
Evaluation and Reporting
- Annual reports will assess the effectiveness of the program, including the number of trafficking incidents detected and prevented.
- Feedback from stakeholders and law enforcement will guide ongoing improvements to the policy.
Conclusion This policy represents a vital step in combating human trafficking through the use of advanced technology and systematic inspections. Its implementation will enhance security, protect victims, and ensure that ports of entry are not exploited for criminal purposes