In a significant step to enhance regional security, the Australian Federal Police (AFP), in collaboration with the Australian Defence Cooperation Program (DCP), has provided the Vanuatu Police Force (VPF) with a comprehensive package of new equipment and refurbished infrastructure.
At a ceremony held in Port Vila on Tuesday, AFP Commissioner Reece Kershaw handed over 13 new police vehicles, two boats, and a range of high-grade policing equipment to VPF Commissioner Robson Iavro. This modern equipment is set to strengthen policing capabilities across Vanuatu’s diverse communities.
In addition to the new equipment, several infrastructure projects supported by the AFP were officially unveiled. These include a refurbished Forensic Laboratory, upgraded facilities at the Police Training College, a newly constructed Fare (ni-Vanuatu gathering place) at the Freshwota police post, and the first of five police houses being renovated at Independence Park.
Commissioner Kershaw emphasized the importance of this initiative in reinforcing the partnership between the two nations. “It was an honour to be welcomed to Vanuatu by my friend Commissioner Iavro and to witness firsthand the close working partnership our two forces share,” said Kershaw.
“We are proud to provide this new equipment and support the infrastructure projects and look forward to the continued collaboration between Australia and Vanuatu. The AFP is committed to working together with our colleagues in the VPF to continue to protect our communities from criminal threats and maintain safety within the region.”
During his visit, Commissioner Kershaw also engaged in high-level discussions with Commissioner Iavro and the newly appointed Minister of Internal Affairs, the Hon Andrew Napuat. These talks aimed to further strengthen the enduring partnership between the AFP and VPF, with Minister Napuat warmly referring to the AFP as “family.”
In a further commitment to Vanuatu’s policing efforts, the AFP has pledged an additional $32.7 million, funded through the Australian Pacific Police Partnership Program (AP4). This investment will support the construction of a new Port Vila Central Police Station, the provision of eight police motorcycles, and the delivery of a Naiad Rigid Hull Patrol Vessel to enhance the VPF’s maritime operations across Vanuatu’s 83 islands.
This collaboration marks another milestone in the AFP’s ongoing efforts to ensure a safer and more prosperous region in the Pacific.
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