They came by sea from Saipan and Rota, 31 vessels in total, arriving at the Hagåtña Boat Basin over a 48-hour span.

And according to Guam Customs and Quarantine, every one of them was screened.

“It was a multi-agency approach, we had the Guam Police Department, we had the special enforcement amphibious section, we had the U.S. Coast Guard, assisting us,” said acting Chief of Customs Col. Franklin Gutierrez. “We had the Dept. of Agriculture. Conservation officers, as well as NOAA. Day to day operations at the Port.”

But some boaters tell KUAM that enforcement didn’t feel equal. One group said they underwent a full inspection, including K-9 units. 

The next day, witnesses claimed other vessels, some reportedly carrying law enforcement and relatives of Customs officers, did not receive the same scrutiny.

It’s a discrepancy that raised questions of fairness and accountability. But Gutierrez re-iterated, “We want to make sure that the boaters even though they go to Saipan. Customs formalities.”

In response to KUAM’s inquiry, Guam Customs provided full transparency on the joint operation.

Customs officials emphasized that Title 5 Guam Code requires all vessels arriving from outside Guam to undergo specific entry procedures, including inspections of persons, cargo, and containers.

And while some may question consistency, customs said the joint operation was about more than enforcement, it was education, engagement, and security. 

“Even though this operation had begun...what the requirements are,” said acting Director of Customs Col. Barbara Tayama. 

As Customs continues to expand maritime operations amid increased regional activity, the agency says it remains committed to equal enforcement, with no exemptions.