New Zealand’s Minister of Customs, Casey Costello, made a significant visit to the Fiji Police Dog Base in Suva, highlighting the collaborative efforts among New Zealand Police, the Fiji Police Force, and Fiji Customs under the longstanding Pacific Detector Dog Programme. This initiative, active for over 64 years, is vital for enhancing border security across the Pacific and plays a key role in deterring criminal activities while ensuring public safety.
During her visit, Minister Costello praised the dedication and work of the Fiji Police Dog Unit and their handlers, emphasizing their essential contribution to safeguarding Fiji’s borders and enhancing regional security. This visit underscored the enduring partnership between Fiji and New Zealand, focusing on advancing law enforcement cooperation.
Previously, a ceremony celebrated the successful training completion of six police dogs and their handlers, reinforcing the strong ties between the two nations aimed at improving community safety. New Zealand High Commissioner Charlotte Darlow acknowledged the impressive progress made within the program and highlighted the importance of fostering local capabilities, reflecting a commitment to self-sufficiency in law enforcement.
The ongoing partnership has led to significant enhancements in policing capabilities, with the Fiji Detector Dog Unit registering over 400 drug-related seizures from July 2023 to January 2025, demonstrating the effectiveness of their collaborative efforts in combating drug trafficking. The success of these programs points toward a hopeful future for enhanced safety and security in the Pacific, showcasing the commitment of both nations to building stronger, safer communities.
Leave a comment