PNG and Australia complete joint border patrol

A recent Joint Cross Border Patrol in the Torres Strait conducted by the Australian Border Force [ABF], Australian Federal Police [AFP], Queensland Police Service [QPS], and Papua New Guinea authorities has been completed.

This followed visits to local communities of Daru, Sigabaduru, and Tureture, including the Saibai and Boigu Islands of the Torres Strait.

The border patrol ran from the 22nd to the 27th of September.

The program, which started in 1997, shows how different agencies work together to protect their shared border

And, in a year the teams conducted up to six patrols given sufficient logistical support of fast-response vessels, helicopters, surveillance aircraft and locally recruited Border Monitoring Officers.

With the same goal of protecting the border from threats like drugs, guns, people smuggling, and illegal fishing, Australian Border Force Assistant Commissioner James Copeman said the Torres Strait is a large and special area, and joint patrols are very important.

He said working closely with PNG agencies, the AFP, and the QPS helps them share important information, find risks early, and take action together to keep the border and nearby communities safe.

PNG Customs Chief Commissioner David Towe said the program has improved border security, helped stop illegal cross-border activities, and supported peace and stability in the region.

PNG Immigration and Citizenship Services Authority Chief Migration Officer Wellington Navasivu says the agency is committed to working closely with its neighbors to ensure the region is safe and secure.

Mr. Navasivu says the partnerships held both domestically and abroad are important to the country's success and should serve as a strong deterrent to those who try to exploit both countries for their own benefit.

AFP's Assistant Commissioner Stephen Jay and QPS Torres Strait Patrol Group Acting Inspector, Nathan Chirio have pledged their commitment to work alongside Pacific law enforcement agencies and domestic partners to improve security across the borders and counter the evolving regional security threats posed by organised criminals.