By  Island Times

NGERULMUD, Palau — The Bureau of Customs and Border Protection (BCBP) has completed the installation and training for newly acquired X-ray equipment at Palau International Airport and other key facilities, aimed at strengthening inspection and screening operations.

Installations began on Oct. 6, 2025, and were completed at the airport’s Non-Intrusive Inspection Facility, Arrival Area, and Cargo Section, as well as at the Post Office Customs Area. The upgrade included three mobile scanners and four medium fixed X-ray units, all now operational.

Following installation, training sessions were held to ensure officers and personnel could operate the equipment effectively. At the airport, Customs and Biosecurity Officers attended sessions on Oct. 9–10, while at the Post Office, training took place Oct. 14–15, involving Customs, Biosecurity, and Police Officers, along with Post Office staff.

Training focused on the basic operation and handling of the X-ray systems, including the use of color-coded imaging to analyze parcels, packages, and baggage. The equipment is expected to improve officers’ ability to detect prohibited, restricted, or undeclared goods, supporting BCBP’s mission to safeguard Palau’s borders while facilitating legitimate trade and travel.