Commissioner of Police, David Manning, has sounded a warning to the heads of international police forces that they must pay attention if they are to prevent the spread of international criminal networks through the Pacific.
Speaking at the INTERPOL (International Criminal Police Organization) General Assembly, Commissioner Manning said action is needed now to stop international criminals from exploiting the Pacific to access to access larger countries.
“Real representation is demanded by the Pacific to ensure INTERPOL effectively supports
pacific nations bring down those criminal enterprises that smuggle firearms and drugs, and
exploit our natural resources” Commissioner Manning said to the General Assembly.
“I say with respect, that INTERPOL has not served Pacific policing needs and our voices
have not been heard.
“Too often Pacific challenges and priorities have not been recognised or addressed.
“Together with my fellow Commissioners from across the Pacific, we carry the responsibility
of safeguarding communities that span a third of the world’s surface.
“The challenges we face in our Pacific are both unique and immense but international
cooperation has too often overlooked our Pacific nations.
“The Pacific is dealing with the growing threat of transnational crime as our region has
become a corridor for exploitation and abuse.
“Pacific police forces are working more closely than ever before, taking bold steps toward a
regional Pacific Policing Body, and we are looking t o greater commitment from INTERPOL.”
Commissioner Manning commended the election of Papua New Guinea, Fiji and Australia
to the INTERPOL Asian Region Committee, saying these are steps in the right direction, but
more must be done.
“Today, I call upon all members and the INTERPOL Executive Committee to work with us
to strengthen partnerships, share resources, and develop solutions tailored to the realities
of the Pacific.
“Ultimately, recognising the needs of our blue pacific is essential for the collective security
of the broader global community.
“Let us work together to ensure inclusion is lived, not just promised, so that we can keep all
of our people safe.”
Commissioner Manning was joined in calling for improved INTERPOL focus on the pacific
region by policing representatives from Palau, Fiji, New Zealand and Australia.
The General Assembly, held in Morrocco, from the 24th to 27th November is INTERPOL’s
supreme governing body and is made u p o f delegates appointed by the governments of
member countries.
INTERPOL has 196 members and provides investigative and forensics support, tracking of
proceeds of crime, analysis and assistance in locating fugitives around the world.
