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Border open to all: Maritime Border Guard Unit shows how it protects our coastline

The Maritime Border Guard Unit in Gdańsk, named after Col. Karol Bacz, opened its gates to residents of the Tri-City area and local students during a public open day held at its headquarters on Oliwska Street. The event offered a rare behind-the-scenes look at the daily operations, equipment, and specialized skills of Poland’s maritime border protection forces.

A Border Guard officer in fatigues shows equipment to a smiling boy wearing a vest marked Straż Graniczna
fot. fot. Łukasz Zwoliński / WOiP MOSG

In brief

The Colonel Karol Bacz Maritime Unit of the Polish Border Guard in Gdańsk held an Open Day at 35 Oliwska Street, attracting residents of the Tricity and school youth. The event was opened by Border Guard Captain (Navy) Wojciech Heninborch, deputy commander of the unit, and workshops on human trafficking were led by Lieutenant Commander Dr Robert Mroczek. Visitors saw a RIB-type patrol boat, an EOD bomb suit, a bomb-disposal robot, thermal imaging cameras and a display by a service dog named Didi. Earlier, the Border Guard Post in Krynica Morska had also opened its doors.

The day was inaugurated by commander Wojciech Heninborch, deputy commander of the Maritime Border Guard Unit. The event provided an opportunity for direct dialogue between officers and citizens, especially young people interested in careers in uniformed services. A special highlight was a workshop on human trafficking prevention, led by commander Dr. Robert Mroczek from the operational-investigative division, which included an educational film screening.

Specialist demonstrations and modern equipment

Visitors were given guided presentations of the equipment used in border protection. Officers from the tactical operations unit demonstrated the use of direct coercive measures, including a RIB-type patrol boat and various firearms. Explosives experts showcased EOD suits, remote-controlled bomb disposal robots, X-ray scanners, and ballistic vests used during special operations.

Forensics technicians introduced guests to the methods and tools used for securing crime scene evidence. Additionally, a service dog handler from the Gdańsk Border Guard Post conducted a demonstration of Didi, a detection dog trained to locate explosives and firearms.

Technology at the forefront of maritime border protection

Exhibition stands featured high-tech devices used in maritime border surveillance and passenger control, such as thermal imaging cameras, night vision goggles, and endoscopes. Attendees could explore the vehicles and equipment used aboard patrol vessels operated by the Kashubian Division of the Maritime Border Guard. First aid demonstrations were also offered to promote public safety awareness.

Recruitment, education, and institutional partnerships

Informational booths were set up by the Maritime Border Guard Unit and the Border Guard Training Centre in Koszalin to answer questions about career paths and recruitment procedures. The event was further enriched by the participation of the Institute of National Remembrance (IPN) in Gdańsk and the Museum of the Second World War, highlighting the historical dimension of national security.

The event’s ceremonial tone was complemented by a performance by the Maritime Border Guard Orchestra, including elements of parade drill. A sweet treat awaited all guests, reinforcing the family-friendly nature of the event.

Open day in Krynica Morska

Just days prior, the Border Guard Post in Krynica Morska held its own open day, welcoming local students and heads of county-level uniformed services. The program included presentations of operational vehicles, recruitment guidelines, first aid techniques, and forensic methods used in the field.

Closer to the community

The open days organized by the Maritime Border Guard reflect a growing emphasis on transparency, public engagement, and civic education. With high attendance and enthusiastic participation, the events successfully strengthened public trust in the vital work of safeguarding Poland’s maritime borders.

Source: Gazeta Morska · Compiled by: Kamil Kusier

Kamil Kusier executive editor All articles by this author →

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