Circular No. 003, dated February 21, 2019, Establishment of Security Level 3, in port facilities serving vessels engaged in international voyages.
CIRCULAR N° 003
Whereas, the current situation of economic warfare unleashed against the Bolivarian Republic of Venezuela, which is aimed at provoking the destruction of the alternative model to capitalism implemented by the Bolivarian Revolution and the overthrow of the Bolivarian government, has reached such a level that it includes the threat of military intervention by foreign forces.
The port facilities referred to in this circular, shall act in accordance with the security levels established in their respective Port Facility Security Plan, in order to minimize inconvenience or delay to passengers, vessels, personnel and visitors to vessels, goods and services.
The port facilities referred to in this circular must implement specific and additional security measures in order to identify and take preventive actions against security incidents, such as:
- Ensure the effectiveness of all port facility security tasks;
- Supervise access to the port facility;
- Monitor the port facility, including anchorage and berthing area(s);
- Monitor restricted areas to ensure that only authorized persons have access to them;
- Supervise cargo handling;
- Supervise the handling of ship’s stores; and
- Ensure prompt availability of means for security communications.
Port facilities covered by this circular, in close coordination with the Aquatic Authority, will take measures that may include:
- Suspend access to parts or all of the port facility,
- Authorize access only to those responsible for responding to the protection event or threat;
- Suspend the movement of people or vehicles in parts or in the entire port facility;
- Increase security patrols at the port facility;
- Suspend operations in parts or all of the port facility;
- Directing the movement of vessels in parts or all of the port facility; and
- Evacuate parts or all of the port facility.
The Aquatic Authority, through the General Operations Management and through the Port Authorities, shall ensure strict compliance with this Circular.
The contents of this Circular are to be notified through all dissemination mechanisms.
In Caracas, on the 21st day of the month of February 2019.
