AFP helps boost Samoa Police capability ahead of Heads of Government meeting
Editor’s note: Images are available via Hightail
The AFP is working closely with the Samoa Police, Prisons and Correction Services (SPPCS), providing equipment and specialist training as the country prepares to host the 2024 Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting (CHOGM) for the first time.
Last week, the AFP, through the Samoa Australia Police Partnership (SAPP), handed over nine new police motorcycles for the Samoa Police Traffic Unit.
The motorcycles will play a vital role in traffic operations and escorting dignitaries during CHOGM in October next year.
CHOGM is the Commonwealth’s primary political meeting, which is held every two years and where leaders discuss global economic, environmental and security challenges and how to work together to overcome them.
Through SAPP, the AFP is working side-by-side with Samoa Police on security planning for the event, sharing knowledge and insights and capability development.
The AFP also provided more than 18 motorcycle helmets, 50 pairs of motorcycle gloves, and more than 100 first aid kits.
The equipment complements training – some already delivered – planned for Samoa police over the next six months to help support a safe and successful event.
Samoa Police officers have undertaken courses that will enable them to train colleagues in Close Personal Protection (CPP), drone pilot training and first aid. Training in bicycle police operations and bomb search training are also scheduled.
AFP Detective Superintendent Daniel Evans said the AFP would continue to work collaboratively with Samoa police to enhance its capability ahead of the meeting, and beyond.
“Samoa Police are well positioned and advanced in their security planning for the event and we will continue to stand side-by-side with them,” Detective Superintendent Evans said.
“The AFP is committed to providing ongoing support to the Samoa Police and Samoa Government ahead of CHOGM by providing advice, funding and access to AFP capability and training.”
SPPCS Minister Faualo Harry Schuster thanked the AFP and Australian government for the support.
“I sincerely appreciate the generous support through the Samoa Australia Police Partnership,” Minister Schuster said.
“The new motorcycles will play an important role for the security of CHOGM while also helping to escort our guests throughout the duration of the event.”
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