For smugglers, Schiphol staff is indispensable to get drugs through the gates. “Criminals are busy 24 hours a day, 7 days a week to find people they can use,” says Marcel van de Ven. He trains a group of employees in a special container at Schiphol-Oost. “They are well prepared and do their homework.”
Employees learn how criminals work and how you protect yourself. The training is intended for all employees with a Schiphol pass, from trainees to directors. Whether you work on freight handling or aircraft: in all layers, criminals are looking for people who can help them.
Hide or move drugs
Sometimes it is about hiding or moving drugs, but small actions can also be enough: not paying attention, checking a check during a check or passing on logistical information.
“Many people think” that doesn’t happen to me, “says Van de Ven. “But nowadays, social media is easy to find out where someone works. Then it is possible that criminals are suddenly at your door.”
According to him, rejecting an approach is crucial, although it doesn’t always feel that way. “Everyone has their price. If someone threatens or extorts you, it is difficult to say no. But that simple ‘no’ is often the most powerful answer.”