Officers who secure Bermuda’s borders will be honoured over four days of events.

Celebrations for International Customs Day will begin tomorrow morning and continue until Wednesday, when service members meet with the next generation of potential officers.

The annual celebration will highlight the ongoing theme of “customs delivering on its commitment to efficiency, security and prosperity”.

Lucinda Pearman, the Collector of Customs, said: “The Customs Department continues to play an essential role in the Bermuda economy, and has maintained our mission, ‘Protecting Bermuda's border and promoting economic development’.

“In 2024, the department has steadily moved towards protecting our data and upgrading our Caps system through new build-outs and officer training.

“All customs officers and support staff are commended for their ongoing commitment to facilitate legitimate trade, assess and collect revenue, and interdict drugs and other contraband.”

The week will begin with a service at St Paul’s African Methodist Episcopal Church on Victoria Street from 11am tomorrow.

The service will honour officers who died while on duty and present customs officers with longstanding service awards for 5, 15, 20, 25 and 35 years.

Officers will then be out early on Monday morning to greet people on their way to work.

The C.A. Smith Road Race will take place on Tuesday and celebrations will culminate the following day with trainee customs officers visiting selected primary schools to meet pupils and read to classes.

Michael Weeks, the Minister of National Security, said: “The Customs Department plays a vital role in safeguarding our borders, ensuring national security and facilitating trade, all of which contribute to Bermuda’s economic stability.

“As we celebrate International Customs Day, we recognise the dedication and professionalism of our customs officers, who work tirelessly to uphold these responsibilities.

“This year's theme, ‘Customs Delivering on its Commitment to Efficiency, Security and Prosperity’, reflects their unwavering commitment to excellence.

“I extend my heartfelt congratulations to this year’s Long Service Award recipients and commend the entire team for their service to our island.”