Removal of K-9 unit worries Rota
The Division of Customs has pulled out its K-9 dog from the Rota International Airport due to funding shortfall, prompting concerns on the failure by authorities to detect drugs and other contraband being smuggled into the CNMI.
Sen. Edward U. Maratita, head of the Rota Legislative Delegation, yesterday asked Customs Director Joe Mafnas to reinstate the monitoring system as he offered his assistance in trying to seek funds to have the surveillance dog in place at the airport.
Noting that the island municipality last used the K-9 unit in December 1999 to check passengers, baggage and cargoes entering through its ports, he expressed concern that Rota Customs office will not be able to afford having such trained dog for the next two years because of lack of funds.
“I feel that this is much too long to wait considering the fact that Rota is a direct point of entry in which cargo and passengers from Guam are first cleared before entering the CNMI,” said Mr. Maratita in a letter to the Customs chief.
Mr. Mafnas could not be reached for comment on the concerns of the senator who also asked him to provide him information on ways to fund the project.
“Not having the unique skills of a trained K-9 unit prevents our Rota Customs officers from detecting all unwanted drugs or other such contraband from entering our island and the Commonwealth,” explained Mr. Maratita.
“If there is a funding problem for additional K-9 dogs, please inform me as soon as possible so we can immediately address these concerns,” he added.
There has been a marked increase in illegal drug trafficking in the CNMI for the past few years which has alarmed both local and federal authorities.