KAOHSIUNG (TVBS News) — The Kaohsiung Harbor Police Department held a blessing ceremony Tuesday morning (Dec. 12) for its new police boat, the "Kao P65," as part of efforts to enhance maritime security at Kaohsiung Harbor.
Commissioned for NT＄5.52 million, the Kao P65 was designed to patrol harbor waters more effectively and deter criminal activities. Planning for the new vessel began in October of last year, with construction completed on Nov. 6, culminating in its launch on Dec. 12.
The Kao P65 features an optimized interior design, two 250-horsepower engines, a four-in-one GPS navigation system, and European inverter air conditioners. The police boat can reach a top speed of 42 knots.
Liang Tung-shan, the General Commander of the department, highlighted the need for increased security with the opening of the Kaohsiung Port Cruise Terminal and the operation of nearly 4,000 hazardous material ship voyages through the port area this year.
The department is committed to maintaining order in major cruise ship lanes and plans to replace older police vessels annually to meet growing security demands.