PARAMARIBO--US Ambassador Edwin Nolan on Tuesday presented two patrol boats to the Government of Suriname, to be used by the Police Force KPS maritime units in Paramaribo and District Nickerie. On hand to receive the vessels were Justice Minister Jennifer van Dijk-Silos and Chief of Police Commissioner Agnes Daniel.
The two aluminium boats, 21.5 feet in length, come equipped with two 150 horsepower Mercury outboard engines, two trailers and 25 life vests. Also included in the transfer are a one-year manufacturer’s warranty and two scheduled maintenance checks.
The embassy said that the donation is designed to support efforts to combat all forms of illicit activity and KPS’ performance of other duties on the Suriname and Corantijn Rivers and their direct offshoots. Ambassador Nolan: “This donation is a wonderful example of the continued collaboration and friendship between the Governments and people of Suriname and the United States. The success of our efforts to strengthen local law enforcement must be matched by a continued commitment to effective outreach to local communities, including those in remote areas. My hope is that these boats will enable the Police Maritime Unit to carry out effective patrol operations, both around Paramaribo and along Suriname’s river border with Guyana.”
