Macao's first and only search and rescue diving squad was established in 1975 by what was then known as the Marine Police Inspection Team. Once the Macao Customs Service was set up, it took over responsibility for the work.

The Macao Customs Service Diving Team operates round the clock and currently has 22 members. It is mainly responsible for rescue work – such as in the event of ship collisions or sinkings, people falling into the sea, and other personal-rescue situations – inside the waters managed by the Macao Special Administrative Region (MSAR). In addition, the Diving Team is also responsible for rescue work at artificial lakes and reservoirs within the MSAR.

Members of the Macao Customs Service Diving Team are all serving officers of Macao Customs Service. In addition to being trained in general duties and completing a one-year internship in maritime-related matters, they are also required to complete and pass a diver training course.

In addition to rescue work, the Macao Customs Service Diving Team is responsible for assisting in matters relating to maritime safety and security, civil defence, salvage, searching for and recovering evidence located underwater, and inspection of Macao Customs Service patrol vessels.

Current members of the Macao Customs Service Diving Team also need to receive continuous training to master underwater search and rescue skills, and thus to consolidate and enhance their ability to respond to emergencies. (Photo Courtesy: Macao Customs Service)

The Macao Customs Service Diving Team organises various training activities, such as rescue diving, and boarding vessels while they are in motion. This is in order to simulate the contact and coordination of action required between team members in the event of an incident. Such training improves law enforcement and rescue work in the event of maritime incidents.

The Macao Customs Service Diving Team is required to conduct routine safety inspections of Macao Customs Service patrol vessels. Should abnormalities be found on the hull of such a vessel, or if its propeller were fouled by fishing net or other debris, repairs and cleaning must be carried out immediately to ensure the vessel is capable of optimal performance.

The Macao Customs Service Diving Team keeps pace with developments, adding advanced equipment in a timely manner to enhance emergency rescue capabilities and efficiency.

The Macao Customs Service Diving Team has been committed since its establishment to serving the MSAR Government and the public. When an incident occurs at sea, the team is at the forefront of rescue work, and does its best to carry out effectively such missions. (Photo Courtesy: Macao Customs Service)