25 undergo training
TWENTY-FIVE participants from border agencies across Fiji, Palau and Vanuatu began a two-week training in Suva last week to strengthen the management of each country’s seaports.
The Seaport Border Control Vessel training, facilitated by the Fiji Revenue and Customs Service (FRCS) with support from the Australian Border Force and Indonesia’s Directorate General of Customs and Excise, is expected to provide participants with essential knowledge and skills for conducting vessel searches which also includes safety procedures at sea, boarding operations, boarding access systems and in-water survival techniques.
FRCS director customs
Shelini Kumar said the investment in the continuous professional development of our border security personnel was indispensable.
She added that comprehensive capacity and capability training equip officers with the knowledge, skills, and tools necessary to navigate evolving challenges effectively.
In a press release by the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) Pacific, it was stated the Pacific region had a strong reliance on its seaports, not only for the import and export of goods, but for tourism and additional economic activity.
UNDP Pacific resident representative Munkhtuya Altangerel said the training was very timely, given the recent seizure of more than 4.8 tonnes of methamphetamine that was reportedly imported into Fiji and due for export to developed countries in the Pacific Region.
“With this in mind, it will contribute to strengthening the overall governance systems that exist between all government agencies to ensure that the ecosystem for the monitoring, enforcement and prosecution of border control measures are done so efficiently and effectively,” said Ms Altangerel.
During the opening of the training, Attorney-General and Minister for Justice Siromi Turaga said it would contribute to the creation of an environment for monitoring, enforcement, and prosecution of border control measures in Fiji and across the Pacific.
“Seaports are important gateways for international trade and commerce, with seaport border controllers our frontline defenders,” he said.
“From inspecting cargo and vessels to monitoring traffic, their duties are demanding, with this next fortnight an opportunity for training and skills enhancement. However, it must be noted that it only becomes useful if you put it to use.”
Mr Turaga said it was also an invaluable opportunity for defence against the influx of illegal substances, including drugs, and that the training served as a cornerstone in preparing the dedicated frontline officers for the complex and demanding responsibilities they face in safeguarding our nation’s seaports.
“First and foremost, the training provides seaport board controllers with indepth knowledge and understanding of maritime security principles, protocols, and procedures.
“Through classroom instruction, hands-on exercises, and practical simulations, participants gain a comprehensive understanding of the different security challenges and threats facing seaports today.”
He said it was essential to invest in such trainings to meet the evolving challenges and threats facing our seaports in the years ahead.
The training which will end on February 23, is supported by UNDP under its Integrated Border Management Project and funded by the Government of Japan.