Manama: A New tracking system to be installed in thousands of registered boats will significantly contribute to combating smuggling operations in Bahrain’s waters, according to a top official. 

Coastguard Commander Commodore Ala’a Siyadi said the process of applying the Automatic Identification System (AIS) in 7,500 vessels registered with Bahraini authorities is underway.

It comes as authorities have heightened efforts to curb the smuggling of weapons, such as high-grade explosives and firearms, from Iran into Bahrain.

Bahrain has made several high-profile arrests of individuals alleged to have received funding and training from Iran’s Revolutionary Guard Corps or Iranian proxies such as Hizbollah.

An attempt to smuggle almost 44kg of explosives, automatic weapons and ammunition into Bahrain was foiled by
Bahraini authorities on
July 15.

However, Commodore Siyadi said the maritime security fence project – featuring the AIS programme, GPS and cameras – has already been instrumental as boat owners have started using the AIS technology, giving the coastguard greater ability to control and monitor Bahrain’s territorial waters.

“All boats registered with the coastguard will have (the AIS) fitted within the next two years,” he told Bahrain News Agency.

“All these boats will be seen from the coastguard’s operation room through information fed by the AIS.

“The purpose of the project is to ensure the safety of sailors and protect the coast and territorial waters from smuggling operations or people sneaking into the country.

“It will also help regulate traffic at sea by sending a signal to the coastguard’s operation room to know the location of each ship.

“Most importantly, in case of an emergency, sailors can use it even outside of areas covered by telecommunications networks by only pressing a button.

“This will immediately alert the operation room and provide information on the location of the boat.” 

Training workshops on how to use the system are being conducted for fishermen and registered seafarers.

“The coastguard has received professional training on the use of the new system through courses in Bahrain and abroad,” said Commodore Siyadi.

“Fishermen and sailors can attend our workshops and get the knowledge on how to operate the AIS.

“Also, phone applications and computer programmes will be applied in the future to allow boat owners to monitor their vessels at sea.”

A deal was earlier signed between Interior Minister Lieutenant General Shaikh Rashid bin Abdulla Al Khalifa and SRT Marine Technology chief executive Simon Tucker to operate the system.

The GDN reported at the time that the system, which would promote safer seas and swift emergency responses, would be installed in Bandar Aldar, Muharraq and Budaiya jetty.