NSW: Australians coastal borders barely protected

AAP General News (Australia)
08-25-2001
NSW: Australians coastal borders barely protected

Australian customs officials only search three in every 10,000 containers that arrive
on the nation's docks every year.

Even then, the containers are usually only searched largely if intelligence reports
suggest they are carrying illegal goods.

The Weekend Australian reports that drugs, guns and illegal immigrants are streaming
through Australia's coastal borders every year.

The newspaper reports that international crews - including those from high-risk countries
- freely walk on and off wharves carrying baggage without fear of being searched.

Australian waters are also routinely fished illegally by foreign boats with little
fear of being caught.

AAP RTV kp/jas

KEYWORD: CUSTOMS (SYDNEY)

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