Government must prioritise resources for frontline border personnel

The Royal Papua New Guinea Constabulary’s border commander has called on the National and Provincial Governments to urgently provide resources and support to border agencies, warning that PNG’s sovereignty is at risk without proper border management.

Assistant Commissioner of Police border commander Steven Francis issued the statement during the closing of the Paramilitary Training for Border Command personnel at the Forward Operating Base in Vanimo, West Sepik.

ACP Francis said border agencies stationed in key locations including Wutung and the proposed border post at Kiunga require immediate funding, logistics and institutional support.

"Our frontline border personnel are serving in challenging and isolated conditions. They should not be expected to protect the nation without the right tools, technology, facilities and political support," he said.

"Government leaders must move beyond statements of concern and provide practical and timely assistance."

He said while significant attention is given to internal law and order, border security and border management must not be neglected.

ACP Francis highlighted that PNG shares a land border with Indonesia and a maritime boundary with Australia, making border security vital to national sovereignty, economic security and international responsibilities.

He warned that the increasing movement of illicit goods is a clear sign that stronger measures are needed.

"Transnational crime does not respect national boundaries. There are growing concerns regarding the smuggling of fauna and flora, gold and other high-value commodities. Such activities deprive Papua New Guinea of revenue, damage the environment and contribute to organised crime," ACP Francis said.

The border commander stressed that border security is not the responsibility of police alone.

He said police, defence, immigration, customs, quarantine, fisheries and forestry must be properly staffed, trained, equipped and supported to work together.

ACP Francis listed key priorities the government must address including proper funding for border agencies and border provinces, modern border-management systems and smart surveillance technologies ,improved infrastructure at Wutung Kiunga and other border locations,reliable transport,communications and maritime patrol capability, Regular training and welfare support for frontline

ACP Francis concluded that investing in border security is not an unnecessary expense.

"Investing in border security is an investment in national sovereignty, public safety, economic protection and the future security of Papua New Guinea. A country that cannot properly monitor and control its borders remains vulnerable to illegal entry, organised crime, weapons trafficking and the loss of national resources," ACP Francis said

He urged the national and provincial governments and all responsible agencies to act now and make border security a sustained national priority.