Timely assistance
Boost for border protection
THE introduction of new trace detection device at our international borders is a timely boost for Fiji’s border security system as Fiji prepares for reopening of its international borders.
Fiji Revenue and Customs Service (FRCS) board chairman Mahmood Khan made the statement at their FRCS office in Nadi yesterday to acknowledge the assistance from the New Zealand government.
According to the FRCS the trace detection device will support them to conduct risk assessment of cargo and passengers more effectively and will enable the Customs officers to mitigate and identify illicit material on high risk cargo and passenger for intervention at the entry and exit points.
The units which are worth $NZ30,000 ($F44,772) with additional consumable kits worth $NZ3000 ($F4477), is also expected to help deter drug trafficking, transnational organized crime and ensure facilitation of legitimate trade.
Mr Khan said trace detection screening was increasingly common in international airports worldwide and with the introduction of this in Fiji, FRCS was further enhancing its ability to manage potential risks of illicit goods being brought into the country.
New Zealand Customs Service director international Michael Blades said they were pleased to be able to support a key partner in keeping Fiji and the Pacific region safe.
“New Zealand has strong historic links to the region and by contributing to the protection of Fiji’s borders, we remain connected with our Pacific neighbours. The region is important to us and we look forward to continuing our close relationship in the future,” said Mr Blades.
Welcoming the provision of four ETD units for use at the Fiji Airways’ various facilities, airline’s managing director and CEO Andre Viljoen said the support from CAA-NZ and AVSEC NZ was extremely timely, given the reopening of Fiji’s borders for tourism on 1st December and the anticipated influx of people travelling to and out of Fiji.
“Enhanced regional aviation security is everyone’s business and in everyone’s interest, and Fiji Airways is delighted to be a part of this commitment,” he said.
The FRCS believes that through this assistance, New
Zealand and Fiji’s international law enforcement co-operation and Customs to Customs partnership and Coordinated Border Management has been further strengthened.
A short ceremony was held at the FRCS office in Nadi to acknowledge this assistance from the New Zealand Government.