AFP Boosts Pacific Security

Sydney, Dec 20: The Australian Federal Police (AFP) strengthened its alliances with Pacific police forces, focusing on enhancing community safety and security across the region.
The AFP deepened these partnerships by addressing local police needs through training, equipment, and expertise sharing. With over 100 AFP members across nine Pacific nations, the collaboration aimed at equipping local forces to effectively handle crime and environmental challenges.
A key moment this year was the celebration of over 50 years of the Pacific Islands Chiefs of Police (PICP), attended by AFP Commissioner Reece Kershaw and leaders from 19 Pacific police forces.
This forum has been crucial in developing strategies against transnational crime through enhanced information sharing and partnership building.
AFP Commander Pacific, Melinda Phelan, highlighted the pride in working alongside Pacific counterparts, focusing on combating regional threats.
This partnership not only involves operational support but also cultural exchange, with AFP members learning from their Pacific colleagues.

Key Initiatives and Achievements in 2023:

Pacific Police Development Program Regional (PPDP-R): This program coordinated multiple operational engagements in critical areas like intelligence and emergency management.

Law Enforcement Cooperation Program (LECP): Launched in July, the LECP quickly approved numerous requests for support, aiming to strengthen Pacific police capabilities.

Fiji Efforts: The AFP’s Suva post delivered advanced training and spearheaded significant operations, including a groundbreaking cyberbullying prosecution.

Nauru Collaboration: The Nauru Australia Policing Partnership (NAPP) significantly enhanced the Nauru Police Force’s (NPF) capabilities in areas like cyber safety and advanced investigations.

Papua New Guinea Partnership: Joint operations with the Royal Papua New Guinea Constabulary (RPNGC) led to major drug busts and capacity building for the RPNGC.

Samoa Engagement: The Samoa-Australia Police Partnership (SAPP) contributed to improving traffic management and domestic violence response in Samoa.

Solomon Islands Security: AFP’s collaboration for the 2023 Pacific Games security was a major highlight, alongside infrastructure projects to support the Royal Solomon Islands Police Force (RSIPF).

Tonga Police Support: The Tonga-Australia Policing Partnership (TAPP) focused on a range of policy development initiatives, including upgrading facilities and enhancing skills.

Vanuatu Partnership: Through the Vanuatu-Australia Policing Justice Program (VAPJP), significant strides were made in building infrastructure and enhancing capabilities for the Vanuatu Police Force (VPF).

These efforts by the AFP reflect a strong commitment to supporting Pacific police forces, fostering safe communities, and building a resilient and collaborative security network across the Pacific region.