SHIPPING TIMES | Maritime safety enforcement

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The police and partners recently recently completed two weeks of sustained maritime safety, enforcement and community engagement in support of the World Surf League (WSL) event at Cloudbreak, Fiji. Picture: FIJI POLICE FORCE

The Mamanuca Marine Protection Rescue Initiative (MMPRI), in partnership with the Fiji Police Force (FPF) and other government enforcement agencies, recently completed two weeks of sustained maritime safety, enforcement and community engagement in support of the World Surf League (WSL) event at Cloudbreak, Fiji.

In response to requests from the WSL and the local community, the Fiji Police Force and MMPRI, together with other government stakeholders, provided coordinated maritime support throughout the event.

From the first day of the event through to its conclusion, joint enforcement teams were deployed across the Mamanuca waters, with a particular focus on the Cloudbreak area. The operation was aimed at supporting a safe, secure and well-coordinated environment for surfers, visitors, tourism operators, local communities and other maritime users.

The two-week engagement demonstrates the importance of strong collaboration between government agencies, law enforcement and community-based initiatives in protecting Fiji’s marine environment while supporting the country’s growing tourism and sporting sector.

The Fiji Police Force continues to recognise and appreciate its partnership with MMPRI, which has contributed to strengthening maritime visibility, coordination and support across the Mamanuca waters.

MMPRI and the Fiji Police Force also acknowledged with gratitude the continued support and cooperation provided by other enforcement and government stakeholders, particularly the Fiji Revenue and Customs Service (FRCS) and the Republic of Fiji Navy, whose contribution has strengthened the overall effectiveness of the joint maritime operations.

The successful completion of the two-week operation reflects the value of a multi-agency approach to maritime security and safety, where government institutions, law enforcement and civil society organisations work together toward a common objective.

MMPRI remains committed to working alongside the Fiji Police Force and relevant government stakeholders to support safe tourism, marine protection, maritime safety and law enforcement visibility throughout the Mamanuca waters.

MMPRI also continues to work closely with the business community and donors to support and sustain its ongoing maritime protection, rescue and enforcement operations.

The organisation looks forward to strengthening these partnerships and supporting Fiji’s efforts to maintain a safe, secure and sustainable marine tourism environment.

The Fiji Police Force continues to recognise and appreciate its partnership with MMPRI, which has contributed to strengthening maritime visibility, coordination and support across the Mamanuca waters.
Picture: FIJI POLICE FORCE