Human and illicit drug trafficking are just a few of a growing number of transnational crimes affecting the Pacific.

This was highlighted by acting Minister for Defence Jone Usamate at the start of the Inaugural Pacific Regional Law Enforcement Conference (PRLEC) in Nadi yesterday.

“The illicit trafficking of narcotics across our region is just one of the crimes that cut across our borders,” he said.

“Human trafficking is yet another crime that is on the rise and Pacific island countries are seen to be a source, transit and destination point for this fluid inhumane crime.

“It is a crime against humanity that not only crosses international borders but one that can also be very much present in our communities and different industries.

“However, what sets human trafficking apart is the direct human exploitation acts that degrade a victim’s basic human rights.”

He said the region’s borders and lack of security resources also played a part in the region being target of criminal syndicates.

“Our porous borders, limited border security capabilities and our developing socioeconomic backgrounds makes us vulnerable to becoming choice destinations for this degrading crime.”

The Inaugural Pacific Regional Law Enforcement Conference brought together representatives from the police, customs and immigration from across the Pacific with academic partners.

The PRLEC is facilitated by the Australia Pacific Security College in partnership with the Pacific Islands Chiefs of Police (PICP), the Oceania Customs Organisation (OCO), and the Pacific Immigration Development Community (PIDC).