The Pacific Transnational Serious and Organised Crime (TSOC) Taskforce has made significant strides in combating drug-related crime in the region, seizing over 4.5 tonnes of cannabis, 86 kilograms of cocaine, 78 kilograms of methamphetamine, and 2 kilograms of MDMA since 2019. Alongside these drug seizures, more than 20 high-risk vessels have also been intercepted in Fiji and Tonga, highlighting the efficiency of the inter-agency collaboration formed between Australia, Fiji, Tonga, and New Zealand.
According to an Australian Federal Police (AFP) spokesperson, transnational criminal organizations pose a serious threat to the safety and security of Pacific communities. To address this issue, the AFP and its partners are committed to preventing the Pacific from being exploited as a maritime drug corridor. As a result of their efforts, over 50 individuals have faced arrests and charges for serious drug offenses across the four nations.
Through joint operations like Operation Nautilus, in collaboration with the Fiji Police Force, authorities have achieved impressive results, including the seizure of over four tonnes of methamphetamine and the arrest of 13 individuals in Fiji. The AFP has supported local law enforcement with intelligence, investigations, and specialized technical assistance, bolstering their capacity to combat transnational crime.
The Pacific Transnational Crime Network (PTCN), which includes 29 Transnational Crime Units in 21 member nations, aims to enhance the region’s law enforcement capabilities to detect, investigate, and disrupt drug-related crimes. The AFP remains dedicated to supporting the region through the Pacific Transnational Crime Coordination Centre (PTCCC) based in Samoa.
Fiji’s Home Affairs Minister, Pio Tikoduadua, emphasized the importance of collaborative efforts among regional organizations to strengthen crime-fighting capabilities. Recognizing Fiji and Tonga as major victims of serious organized crime, he pointed out that the use of Fiji as a transshipment hub for drugs impacts markets in Australia and New Zealand. Minister Tikoduadua underscored the need for collective concern and action from all governments in the region to effectively address this pressing challenge.
In summary, the ongoing efforts by the TSOC taskforce and relevant agencies reflect a united front against organized crime in the Pacific, fostering hope for a safer future as nations work together to enhance their law enforcement capacities. This collaborative approach not only aims to tackle current drug crime issues but also strengthens the resilience of local communities against future threats.
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