Torres Strait border patrol targets smugglers, drug traffickers
Australian and PNG authorities have completed their latest joint patrol of the Torres Strait, targeting drug trafficking, people smuggling and illegal fishing across the border region.
People smuggling, drug trafficking and illegal foreign fishing were the focus during a recent cross-border patrol in the Torres Strait.
Australian and Papua New Guinean authorities wrapped up their latest Joint Cross Border Patrol exercise to build relationships, encourage locals to report suspicious activity and combat targeted threats against the two countries.
The exercise, which didn’t lead to any enforcement actions, involved officers from the Australian Border Force, Australian Federal Police, Queensland Police Service and PNG agencies.
ABF assistant commissioner James Copeman said the patrol underlined the strong partnership to protect the Torres Strait.
“The Torres Strait is a vast and unique environment, and that is why these joint patrols are so important,” he said.
“They bring our officers together with their PNG colleagues, strengthen community trust, and demonstrate our commitment to protecting this special region.”
“By working closely with PNG agencies, as well as AFP and QPS, we are able to share intelligence, identify risks and take joint action early to protect the border and the communities who live here.”
The operation targeted threats including drug and firearms trafficking, people smuggling, and illegal foreign fishing.
The team visited communities in Daru, Sigabadaru, and Ture Ture in PNG, as well as Saibai and Boigu Islands in the Torres Strait.
Since 1997, the patrols have been a cornerstone of Australia-PNG border security, with up to six patrols conducted annually using Cape-Class Patrol Boats, helicopters and surveillance aircraft.
Community outreach during the patrol promoted the Border Watch program, encouraging locals to report suspicious activity.
PNG Immigration and Citizenship Services Authority’s chief migration officer Wellington Navasivu said they needed to ensure a safe and secure border.
“The partnerships we hold both domestically and abroad are key to our success and should serve as a strong deterrent to those who seek to exploit our countries for their gain.”
AFP acting Assistant Commissioner Stephen Jay said the threat of serious organised crime continued to impact both countries.
“Criminals are not constrained by international borders and police need to be linked on a global scale to deter and disrupt their activity,” he said.
“Sharing resources to work alongside Pacific law enforcement agencies and domestic partners is vital for improving the security across borders, and for collectively countering the evolving regional security threats posed by organised criminals.”
QPS Torres Strait Patrol Group Acting Inspector Nathan Chirio said the Torres Strait presents a unique policing challenge for Queensland Police.
“The joint patrols are vital in ensuring the safety of the islands and local communities, and help us maintain strong relationships with Papua New Guinea authorities,” Acting Inspector Chirio said.
Anyone with information about possible illegal activity at the border is encouraged to report it to ABF’s Border Watch. Information can be provided anonymously.
Originally published as Torres Strait border patrol targets smugglers, drug traffickers
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