By Theckla Gunga – EMTV News, Port Moresby
In the lead up to the APEC Leaders’ Summit, Water Police have been working hard to provide on-water security for visiting dignitaries.
They received training in Vessel Arrest Rapid Deployment System through the PNG-Australian Policing Partnership and the APEC Coordination Authority.
The training has been designed to stop vessels entering declared restricted zones.
Specialist Trainers have been brought in from Australia and the United Kingdom, to train the Team Leaders within the Water Police.
The vessel arrest systems, both deployable from vessels and jet skis provide the backbone of the RPNGC Water Police security effort to ensure the safety of dignitaries.
Post APEC, this equipment will be used in assisting with detainment of vessels trying to flee prosecution, and combined operations with the National Fisheries Authority, PNG Customs, and Immigration.
Water Police Director Chief Superintendent Lapu said the Vessel Arrest Rapid Deployment System is a critical part of APEC security preparation and he has been assured by the trainers, that our police are rapidly learning the skills required to effectively deploy and maintain.
