Twelve recruits started their training this month to become Customs officers at Customs Caribbean Netherlands (Douane Caribisch Nederland). On the 17th of March, they took their oath or affirmation, officially beginning the nine-month, Task-oriented C training program to become customs officers. With this new group, Customs Caribbean Netherlands is taking an important step in further strengthening supervision and enforcement at the borders of Bonaire, St. Eustatius and Saba.
Image: © BCN
Task-oriented C training program
The Task-oriented C training program takes place on Bonaire and consists of a combination of theory and practice. The program is structured into three components:
- Integrated Professional Skills Training (IBT) and Special Police Officer (BAVPOL) module;
- Basic professional skills module for Customs C officer; and
- Task-oriented learning and working module.
During the training, recruits will receive instruction in criminal law and criminal procedure, drafting official reports, and professional conduct. They also undergo training in the use of force, arrest procedures and self-defense, weapons knowledge, and firearms proficiency.
In addition, they learn to work with customs legislation, including the Customs- and Excise Duty Act BES (Douane- en Accijnswet BES), as well as special laws in the areas of safety, health, economy, and the environment, such as the Firearms Act, Medicines Act, Opium Act 1960 BES, and CITES regulations (Vuurwapenwet, Geneesmiddelenwet, Opiumwet 1960 BES en CITES-regelgeving).
Furthermore, the recruits are introduced to the clearance and declaration process, customs tariffs, customs valuation, exemptions, passenger baggage, and excise duties. They also receive Dutch language instruction and learn to work with ASYCUDA World, the system used by customs to register all incoming and outgoing goods.
Appointment
After successfully completing the training in December 2026, the recruits will be appointed as customs officers (C officers). They will then be deployed on Bonaire, St. Eustatius, and Saba, where they will apply their knowledge and skills in practice.