The Australian Federal Police (AFP) joined Pacific police leaders at the 2024 Pacific Transnational Crime Network (PTCN) Capacity Development Forum in Vanuatu to confront escalating criminal threats in the region.
Held from 11–15 November, the forum brought together 18 leaders from 21 member countries, including new member French Polynesia, which joined the network in September. Discussions focused on critical issues such as the illicit drug trade, organised crime, illegal immigration, and the movement of known child sex offenders.
Transnational Crime Unit (TCU) leaders shared insights, explored collaborative strategies, and reaffirmed their commitment to the PTCN’s mission of fostering a safer Pacific under the motto “By the Pacific, For the Pacific.”
Detective Superintendent Elias Petropoulos of the AFP emphasised the growing importance of regional partnerships. “With the ever-increasing threat of transnational organised crime in the Pacific, collaboration has never been more vital,” he said.
The network, comprising 29 TCUs across Pacific nations, employs a multi-agency approach involving police, immigration, customs, and other law enforcement agencies to combat organised crime. French Polynesia’s inclusion further strengthens the network’s capacity to tackle cross-border threats.
Samoa Police Commissioner and PTCN Executive Sponsor Auapaau Logoitino Filipo highlighted the collective resolve of Pacific nations. “Our journey is far from over. The road ahead will demand resilience and commitment to a mission that unites us for a safer and more peaceful Pacific region,” he said.
The AFP remains a founding member of the PTCN, with advisors stationed across key locations including Fiji, Papua New Guinea, Tonga, Solomon Islands, and Vanuatu. The annual forum underscores the region’s united front against the complexities of transnational crime.
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