05/11/2026 - 09:48
Photo: Claudio Neves - GCom Portos do Paraná
Meeting addressed challenges of combating international drug trafficking and prospects for cooperation with the United Kingdom
On Wednesday (4), the CEO of Portos do Paraná welcomed a six-member delegation from UK security forces, part of the Americas Port Security Project. They came to learn about the structures and actions to combat international drug trafficking at the Port of Paranaguá. During the meeting, the British expressed interest in developing a future strategic partnership with Portos do Paraná in the area of security.
Luiz Fernando Garcia, CEO of Portos do Paraná, noted that the public company already maintains partnerships with ports in other countries, such as Rotterdam in the Netherlands and Valencia in Spain. He expressed interest in expanding the cooperation network with the United Kingdom. "We are certainly interested in this partnership. It will be a pleasure to formalize an agreement with the United Kingdom," Garcia stated.
The delegation was led by Thomas Lyster, liaison officer for the National Crime Agency (NCA), a British agency that combats organized crime, similar to the work of the Brazilian Federal Police. Representatives from Border Force and the Home Office Intelligence Organisation (HOIO), the intelligence organization of the British Ministry of Interior, also participated.
The reception also included the presence of Gabriel Vieira, Director of Port Operations at Portos do Paraná; Major Cesar Kamakawa, manager of the Port Security Administrative Unit (UASP – Port Guard); and Kayo Zaiats, Superintendent of Health, Safety, Engineering, and Environment at Paranaguá Container Terminal (TCP).
According to Thomas Lyster, the Americas Port Security Project is a UK-funded initiative that seeks to support partner countries in identifying, intercepting, and responding to threats related to organized crime and maritime trafficking. The meeting was technical in nature and addressed common challenges in combating drug trafficking, as well as opportunities to enhance coordination and cooperation between countries.
"We are here to learn from you. We have vulnerabilities in UK ports, and our goal is to analyze everything we have seen here to improve our work," Thomas highlighted. Following the visits, a report will be prepared and shared with Portos do Paraná to foster discussions. The agency will also provide resources to support the implementation of specific port security measures that arise from the partnership.
The British representatives praised the security measures adopted by Portos do Paraná. For Major Cesar Kamakawa, this recognition reinforces the importance of the work carried out by the public company in conjunction with other security agencies. According to him, improved intelligence contributes to reducing opportunities for criminal activity.
"The visitors were very satisfied with the information presented by Portos do Paraná and were surprised by the advanced stage we are at in combating crime involving the Port of Paranaguá and organized crime," he emphasized.
The agenda concluded with a visit to the Port of Paranaguá pier and the facilities of the Paranaguá Container Terminal (TCP).
