The uncontrolled spread of nuclear and radioactive materials poses a significant threat to global security. To address these risks and strengthen border security, the World Customs Organization (WCO) partnered with the U.S. Department of Energy's National Nuclear Security Administration (NNSA) and the Nuclear Smuggling Detection and Deterrence (NSDD) program to conduct a four-day "Radiological and Nuclear Detection Awareness" (RANDA) training in Sri Lanka from November 6-9, 2023.
Addressing Growing Nuclear Security Challenges
With increasingly complex global nuclear security threats—including terrorism, illicit trafficking, and accidental incidents—customs authorities serve as the first line of defense against cross-border movement of dangerous materials. The RANDA program was established to enhance detection capabilities among frontline customs officers worldwide.
Training Objectives and Curriculum
The intensive program focused on three core objectives:
- Risk awareness: Educating Sri Lankan customs officials about potential threats from uncontrolled radioactive and nuclear materials
- Detection skills: Improving technical proficiency in using specialized equipment to identify illicit shipments
- International cooperation: Strengthening collaboration with organizations including the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) and UN Office of Counter-Terrorism (UNOCT)
The curriculum covered critical topics:
- Fundamentals of radiological and nuclear threats
- Customs' role in nuclear security
- Relevant legal frameworks
- Transport regulations for radioactive materials
- Risk management methodologies
Interactive Training Approach
The program combined theoretical instruction with practical exercises for 25 frontline Sri Lankan customs officers. Key components included:
- Opening remarks by Sri Lanka Customs Deputy Director General Achara Chandra Sekera
- Virtual participation from IAEA and UNOCT representatives
- Field visits to Colombo's major port to observe detection procedures
- Instruction from both international experts and local specialists
Program Outcomes and Strategic Impact
The training significantly enhanced participants' detection capabilities and threat awareness, strengthening Sri Lanka's nuclear security framework. The initiative achieved multiple strategic objectives:
- Improved national security through enhanced border detection
- Strengthened international counter-proliferation cooperation
- Advanced professional development for customs personnel
- Established foundational expertise for future nuclear security operations
Future Directions
Sri Lanka Customs plans to continue nuclear security capacity building through:
- Legal framework enhancements
- Detection technology upgrades
- Ongoing personnel training
- Expanded international partnerships
These efforts aim to progressively strengthen Sri Lanka's contributions to global nuclear security while protecting national borders from radiological threats.