Government has developed a comprehensive National Border Security Upgrade Framework to enhance border security, incorporating a coordinated approach among all key stakeholders.
Minister for Home Affairs Pio Tikoduadua highlighted this in the Parliament yesterday when asked by Assistant Minister for Home Affairs Lenora Qereqeretabua on what actions have been taken, or were planned to be taken to ensure border security, given the influx in criminal activities and illegal border entries.
Mr Tikoduadua said the framework would facilitate seamless information sharing and risk intelligence exchange.
He said the ministry was also introducing a digital passenger arrival card (PAC) system, allowing travellers to submit information electronically before arrival.
“This will improve efficiency, reduce clearance times, and enhance a surveillance capability,” Mr Tikoduadua said.
“The third measure that we have adopted is the advanced passenger information. This is in collaboration with the United Nations Office of Counterterrorism.
“We are implementing systems to collect real time passenger data and this will help prevent the entry of inadmissible individuals.”
He said another strategy that they were implementing was the maritime security strategy.
“We are in the process of developing robust maritime security strategy to protect our maritime domain.
“This involves co-operation among maritime agencies and to detect and disrupt illegal activities effectively.”
