23 boats to patrol coast

Armed with AK-47s, the entire strength of the city coastal police will be patrolling the sea during the two-day US President’s visit, starting November 6.

Armed with AK-47s, the entire strength of the city coastal police will be patrolling the sea during the two-day US President’s visit, starting November 6.

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The coastal police will deploy the 23 patrol boats they have acquired after the 26/11 attacks. These include six amphibious vehicles and eight boats equipped with radar to spot other boats in the vicinity, measure the depth of the sea, the latest global positioning system and marine communication device.

“These boats are capable of the handling any invasion. The officers posted on these boats are capable of assault action,” an officer said, requesting anonymity as he is not allowed to speak to the media.

On the western coast, officers will be stationed at the Gateway of India, Marine Drive and Haji Ali junction, while on the eastern coast the spots are Bhaucha Dhakka and Sassoon Docks.

The officers have been divided into more than 35 teams for coastal patrolling. These teams will form three lines of defence in the sea.

“Each team will be armed and led by an officer with four constables. They will be equipped with AK-47s, wireless sets, all-weather searchlights, and life jackets,” the officer said. “Beyond five nautical miles, the Coast Guard will monitor the sea.”