Ukrainian authorities get car search training in Finland

Finnish Customs trained Ukrainian border and customs authorities in car searches in Vaalimaa last week, said Customs in a press release on Monday.

The purpose of the EU-funded training was to share the car search knowledge needed in customs inspections, with particular focus on the structure and technology of vehicles.

“We have trained authorities from several countries in Finnish car search practices, because it is very useful to share skills and know-how in customs activities that are governed by international regulations. The training that was now given to Ukrainian border and customs authorities focused on the basic knowledge needed in customs inspections and the main emphasis was on temporary vehicle inspection points,” said Enforcement Director of Finnish Customs Samy Gardemeister.

Finnish Customs’ basic car search training focuses on the structures and technology of vehicles and guides the trainees to pay attention to relevant aspects in the customs inspection.

The training also includes practical training days where the focus is on dismantling and assembling vehicles. Finnish Customs also arranges training in inspection of electric and hybrid vehicles.

The training, which received funding from the European Union’s project EU Support to Strengthening Integrated Border Management in Ukraine (EU4IBM), was held in Vaalimaa from 29 May to 2 June 2023.

After an intensive week of training in Vaalimaa, the Ukrainians can pass on their experiences to the other border and customs authorities in their country.

In the autumn, Ukrainian Customs will be offered further training in Poland as part of the EU Commission’s customs programme.