- Coast Guard spot checks revealed a 60% hazardous material compliance failure rate in New York and New Jersey port warehouses.
- The effort builds on growing interagency cooperation, especially with CBP, to target undeclared dangerous cargo.
- Operation Terminus continues to yield results, seizing illegal shipments and strengthening U.S. port security.
Coast Guard Sector New York conducted targeted warehouse inspections this week at the Port of New York and New Jersey, uncovering a 60% deficiency rate in hazardous material compliance. These checks, based on data from Customs and Border Protection (CBP) container screenings, are part of a broader initiative to detect undeclared hazardous cargo before it can endanger port operations or vessel safety.
Stronger Interagency Collaboration Boosts Results
The inspections mark a significant advance in coordination between the Coast Guard and CBP. Over the past year, information sharing has improved, allowing CBP to flag suspicious shipments for Coast Guard follow-up. This real-time collaboration has enabled faster, more precise enforcement focused on unmarked or improperly handled dangerous goods.
Building on the Success of Operation Terminus
This surge in joint enforcement follows the success of Operation Terminus—a recurring multi-agency effort launched in February 2023. During one five-day sweep earlier this year, authorities seized eight undeclared hazardous materials containers and intercepted 33 stolen vehicles worth over $2.4 million. The campaign resulted in $88,000 in shipper violations and prevented major safety risks such as fires and explosions from improperly transported lithium batteries and full gasoline tanks.
Ongoing Commitment to Port Safety and Supply Chain Integrity
Operation Terminus has highlighted the growing risks of hazardous cargo mismanagement and its potential to disrupt global trade and national security. The Coast Guard continues to stress the importance of regular oversight, aiming to intercept threats before they can leave the port or cross international waters.
Personnel Spotlight: Dedication Behind the Mission
Petty Officer 3rd Class Kenadi Kane, a marine science technician specializing in container inspections, emphasized the personal responsibility and satisfaction of preventing disasters and disrupting criminal networks. Her work reflects the Coast Guard’s broader mission: ensuring the safety, security, and integrity of the nation’s ports and maritime supply chains.
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Source: United States Coast Guard News
