Port Security

Mission and Responsibilities of the Durrës Port Security Force (DPSF)

Security in the Port – More than a Duty, a Commitment

The Durrës Port Security Force (DPSF) is at the core of protecting the largest port in the country, ensuring a safe working and operational environment for all users.

With professionalism, discipline and high dedication, the DPSF works every day to protect life, property and port infrastructure from any unlawful interference or potential risk.

Mission

The mission of the DPSF is to ensure the protection of ships, passengers, crews, shore personnel and the entire port infrastructure, in compliance with the highest national and international security standards.

This is achieved through access controls, land and sea patrols, the use of advanced surveillance equipment, and full implementation of the ISPS Code.

ISPS Code and Security Operations

DPSF operations are organised in accordance with the International Ship and Port Facility Security Code (ISPS Code) and the Port of Durrës Security Plan, which is periodically updated to reflect changes in risks and technology.

The ISPS Code, part of the SOLAS Convention, represents an internationally standardised framework for risk assessment and the definition of appropriate maritime security measures.

The Three ISPS Security Levels

  • Normal – Standard security measures during daily operations.
  • Enhanced – Additional security measures during periods of increased risk.
  • Exceptional – Special measures when a security incident is possible or imminent.

Key Responsibilities of the DPSF

  • controlling entry and exit points in the port;
  • conducting land and sea patrols across the entire port territory;
  • monitoring access channels and anchorage areas;
  • maintaining constant communication with vessels and relevant institutions on security matters;
  • close cooperation with law enforcement structures and port users to ensure a safe and sustainable working environment.

Core Tasks

  • collecting, reporting and distributing information on potential threats;
  • preventing unauthorised access to ships, terminals and restricted areas;
  • checking for weapons, explosive devices and hazardous substances;
  • implementing the “defence in depth” strategy through the separation of security zones;
  • ensuring emergency and evacuation plans are always updated and functional;
  • organising joint drills and training for emergency management;
  • cooperating with the Joint Task Force to prevent illegal activities in the port.

Legal Basis

The Port Security Force performs its activities based on national and international legislation in force, including:

  1. Law No. 9251, dated 08.07.2004, “Maritime Code of the Republic of Albania” (as amended)
  2. DCM No. 115, dated 25.02.2005, “On the establishment of the State Authority for Port Security”
  3. Law No. 10109, dated 02.04.2009, “On the Maritime Administration of the Republic of Albania”
  4. Law No. 168/2013, “On Safety on Board Ships and in Ports”
  5. Order No. 85, dated 11.06.2015, “On strengthening security on ships and open ports of the Republic of Albania”
  6. Law No. 9130, dated 08.09.2003, “On the Port Authority” and DCM No. 596, dated 10.09.2004
  7. Regulation “On the organisation and functioning of the DPA Port Security Structure”, approved by Order No. 24, dated 08.01.2018
  8. Port of Durrës Security Plan
  9. Deployment plan of DPSF forces, resources and duties

Core Values

In every action, the Durrës Port Security Force is guided by:
Discipline, Law Enforcement, Determination and Integrity.

These values form the foundation of trust and professionalism that distinguishes this structure in safeguarding port security.