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Customs and Biosecurity warns House panel of drug smuggling and invasive‑species risks; seeks equipment, exemptions and legislation
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Summary
Customs and Biosecurity officials told the House committee that ports face ongoing drug and invasive‑species threats, and asked for new X‑ray equipment, effective canine teams, funding protections and passage or prompt introduction of a pending biosecurity bill.
Director Jose Mafnes, presenting for the Division of Customs and Biosecurity, told the House Committee on Ways and Means that the division manages three ports of entry across Saipan, Tinian and Rota and faces persistent threats from drug smuggling and invasive species.
Mafnes said interception efforts this year included ‘‘about 5 pounds of crystal meth’’ and cited recent detections of invasive pests including a rhino beetle found inside airline cargo and small destructive species such as fire ants. He said some incoming containers from overseas have fraudulent treatment certificates and that inspections can reveal pests that require expensive fumigation or re‑exportation.
The division described operational needs: an X‑ray scanner that is frequently down and needs replacement; aging detector dogs and canine programs that require expansion and sustainment across all three islands; reliable communications and timely equipment maintenance; and additional staffing and funding for ongoing biosecurity operations. Mafnes urged the committee not to ‘‘shortchange’’ ports funding, calling ports the government’s gatekeepers.
Customs officials described a regional approach to technology: the Assikuda (ASycuda?) trade processing system (presented as a web‑based valuation and risk tool) was highlighted as a potential revenue and enforcement improvement. Mafnes said Palau experienced a roughly $2,000,000 revenue increase shortly after launching ASycuda modules that detect undervaluation; the division is pursuing a feasibility or gap analysis with local partners and paid Assikuda representatives.
Assistant presenters reiterated threats and asked lawmakers to exempt certain revolving accounts used by Customs from austerity reductions so the division can retain reimbursed overtime and fines that support operations. Mafnes asked the committee to expedite a pending biosecurity bill or introduce it promptly after budget deliberations; he said statutory authority beyond the executive order that merged quarantine into Customs would enable stronger regulations and penalties to deter fraudulent fumigation certificates and repeat offenders.
Why it matters: Customs and Biosecurity is the first line of defense against narcotics and agricultural and ecological threats. Equipment failures, staffing shortfalls and legal gaps could increase the risk that contraband, invasive pests or harmful animal diseases enter island ecosystems and communities.
The committee did not take formal action during the hearing; members asked follow‑up questions and were told a written revolving‑funds report had been provided to the committee.
