The Australian Border Force (ABF), Australian Federal Police, Queensland Police Service, and Papua New Guinea (PNG) authorities have successfully completed the latest Joint Cross Border Patrol in the Torres Strait.Running from September 22 to 27, officers visited communities in Daru, Sigabadaru and Ture Ture in PNG, and Saibai and Boigu Islands in the Torres Strait.
The joint activity forms part of Australia and PNG’s shared mission to protect the border from threats such as drugs and firearms trafficking, people smuggling, and illegal foreign fishing.
ABF Assistant Commissioner James Copeman said the patrol underlined the strong partnership between agencies on both sides of the border, working together to protect the Torres Strait and support local communities.
“The Torres Strait is a vast and unique environment, and that is why these joint patrols are so important. They bring our officers together with their PNG colleagues, strengthen community trust, and demonstrate our commitment to protecting this special region,” Copeman said.
PNG Customs Service Chief Commissioner David Towe said cooperation and collaboration between Papua New Guinea and Australia was the key to border security for both nations. “Through this collaborative approach we are able to effectively detect, deter and disrupt transnational criminal activities that pose risks to our communities and ensure secure movement of legitimate trade across our borders.”
PNG Immigration and Citizenship Services Authority Chief Migration Officer Wellington Navasivu said PNG was committed to working hand-in-glove with its closest neighbour to ensure a safe and secure region for all.
Community information activities were conducted as part of the patrol, promoting the ABF Border Watch program that enables the public to report the suspicious movements of goods and people. This information often leads directly to operational outcomes.
The joint patrols began in 1997. Supported by Cape-Class Patrol Boats, fast-response vessels, helicopters, surveillance aircraft and locally recruited Border Monitoring Officers, up to six patrols are conducted each year.
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