St Joseph’s School Year 6 pupils visited HM Customs Gibraltar for an educational open day that showcased the agency’s operational roles. The event began with a presentation from the Dog Section, where students met the detector dog Stitch and learned how canine units detect prohibited and illicit substances. They were also shown specialist equipment, including an underwater drone used to inspect the hulls and undersides of vessels. Pupils were introduced to maritime charts, radio communications and other operational tools, as well as personal protection equipment such as handcuffs and batons. They practiced basic ropework skills and participated in a vehicle‑search exercise, searching for hidden bags of sweets. The visit included a trip aboard HM Customs vessels HMC Searcher and HMC Sentinel, giving students a closer look at maritime operations. HM Customs said the open day allowed pupils to experience aspects of the service they would not normally encounter and helped strengthen links with Gibraltar’s schools. The department thanked the staff and pupils of St Joseph’s School for taking part.
Article source: Gibraltar Chronicle | Image credit: Gibraltar Chronicle