By Eliza Kukutu
Vessel 1
By Agnes Menanopo
The Australian Federal Police (AFP) has handed over two new NAIAD vessels to the Royal Solomon Islands Police Force (RSIPF) Marine Division to strengthen its maritime policing and operational capabilities.
The vessels were handed over today at the RSIPF Marine Division Aola base and are expected to enhance the RSIPF’s ability to respond to maritime security threats, including transnational serious and organized crime.
Speaking at the handover ceremony, AFP Commissioner, Krissy Barrett said the NAIAD vessels would improve operational flexibility and ensure the most appropriate RSIPF asset is deployed for each task.
“Australia’s insatiable appetite for these illicit drugs is appalling, especially given our trusted friends and partners have become the collateral damage.
“With that in mind, a great partner knows when to step up and when to take its share of responsibility,” Commissioner Barrett said.
She said the vessels were one way Australia and Solomon Islands could work together to combat criminal networks involved in illicit drug trafficking.
“These criminals are not untouchable. The Pacific Chiefs all have great resolve, skill and capability to target those who target us.
“This new capability will allow the RSIPF to seize illicit drugs and prove to the cartels that it is too expensive and too much of a risk to test our resolve,” Commissioner Barrett said.
Minister of Police, National Security and Correctional Services, Hon. John Tuhaika Jnr, said the provision of the vessels would make a practical and meaningful contribution to the operational capability of the RSIPF Marine Division.
“These assets will strengthen our capability in law enforcement, maritime safety, search and rescue emergency response, and efforts to prevent and respond to transnational serious and organized crime.
“The significance of the occasion extends beyond the vessels. It represents an investment in the capability, confidence and resilience of our national institutions,” Minister Tuhaika said.
He thanked the Australian Government and the AFP for their continued support to the RSIPF and Solomon Islands’ maritime security efforts.
ENDS//
