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Officers from the Royal Solomon Islands Police Force (RSIPF) have completed a series of border surveillance and small boat training courses conducted by the Australian Defence Force. The training, held as part of Exercise Coastwatchers, took place between August 31 and September 23 across Guadalcanal, Western, Choiseul, and Isabel provinces.
The program focused on enhancing the police force’s ability to operate in remote locations, conduct surveillance, gather intelligence, and coordinate responses to criminal activity. Participants received instruction on planning surveillance missions, operating Parrot drones, and integrating field data into broader police operations. The curriculum combined classroom theory with practical field scenarios designed to improve situational awareness and information reporting.
According to the Australian High Commission, the initiative aims to strengthen the RSIPF’s capacity to protect maritime resources, monitor national borders, and address transnational crimes, including the trafficking of illicit drugs. The Solomon Islands maintains one of the largest maritime areas in the Pacific, necessitating robust surveillance capabilities to protect local resources and communities.
Acting Defence Adviser to Solomon Islands, Squadron Leader Brett Verity, stated that the training provides officers with advanced skills in surveillance planning and operational coordination. Exercise Coastwatchers serves as the primary training engagement between the Australian Defence Force and the RSIPF.
Article source: www.solomontimes.com | Image credit: www.solomontimes.com
