Operational leaders from Customs and Immigration Divisions responsible for protecting Solomon Islands borders, have completed tough operational command training to ensure successful enforcement operations at the border.

The advanced training equips officers with skills to conduct operations across various aviation and maritime border environments that range in complexity. 

The training is part of an ongoing capacity building program delivered by the Australian Border Force (ABF) to support capability of Solomon Islands border enforcement agencies.

Australia’s High Commissioner to Solomon Islands, Rod Hilton said Australia is committed to listening and responding to the needs of Solomon Islands.

“This training has been requested by the Solomon Islands border agencies to deliver critical training to secure Solomon Islands’ border, community and economy,” Hilton said.  

“By working together, border enforcement agencies can share resources, undertake joint investigations, and enhance effectiveness to combating threats to the Solomon Islands border,” he added.

Solomon Islands’ Customs Comptroller, Peter Hughes, said the standard displayed by senior leaders during the challenging course was impressive. 

“I’m looking forward to seeing this new capability filter out through daily operational activities, protecting the community and the economy,” Hughes said.

Acting Director of Immigration Chris Akosawa said the course protects the integrity of Solomon Islands border.

“Protecting the border is the critical function of border agencies, and to do this we need to have strong operational planning capability which leads to better enforcement outcomes,” Akosawa said.

“I thank the ABF for delivering this course and their ongoing support,” he added.