DUBAI // It started with a telephone call from a fisherman at 9.45am on Tuesday.
An oil spill off the Jebel Ali coast had spread to an 8-kilometre radius, forcing Dubai police to declare a state of emergency.
Air and marine rescue teams were immediately sent to the scene to contain the spread of the pollution.
But the alarm was just part of a drill to help Dubai Police prepare for any crises and disasters.
It took place under the command of Maj Gen Khamis Mattar Al Muzeina, chief commander of Dubai police and head of the Dubai Crises and Disasters Management team.
It featured the fake scenario of an oil spill, to gauge readiness, speed of action, and the implementation of contingency plans by various teams and units in such circumstances.
The “spill” happened in the sea opposite Dubai Aluminium.
The command and control centre declared a state of emergency as the Dubai Police marine pollution centre sent teams to the scene, accompanied by aircraft.
Teams began their investigations not only to activate response plans, contain and clear up the oil spill, but to identify the polluter for future legal action.
Air rescue teams combed the area and made sure the water was free of any contamination.
newsdesk@thenational.ae