Nine motorcycles are part of the SAT$400,000 worth of equipment given to the Samoa Police, Prisons, and Corrections Services Australian Federal Police (A.F.P.) through the Samoa Australia Police Partnership (S.A.P.P.).

For Samoa Police, the Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting (C.H.O.G.M.) in October 2024 presents one of the biggest logistical challenges and they are preparing with help from police forces in Australia, Fiji and New Zealand.

According to a statement issued by the Samoa Police, as they prepare for CHOGM 2024, this assistance demonstrates Australia’s commitment to ensuring a successful and safe event.

The statement said that in addition to providing the Samoa Police with more security planning capabilities for C.H.O.G.M. 2024, the equipment will become the centerpiece of the Police Traffic Unit and will play a vital role in traffic operations.

Additionally, the equipment will assist in traffic operations and escort dignitaries during the event, serving as the flagship of the Samoa Police Traffic Unit.

Australian High Commission, Emily Luck, emphasised the Australian government’s support in helping Samoa build its preparations and plans for the C.H.O.G.M. 2024 event.

“The event focused on some of our support leading up to next year’s CHOGM”, said Ms. Luck.

“With the Commissioner, we have developed a training schedule that includes Close Personal Protection (CPP), First Aid, and Bomb Search training- a train the trainer module, so that the Samoa Police can train others.”

This support from the Australian government and the AFP demonstrates collaborative efforts to ensure the safety and success of the Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting in Samoa in 2024.

Minister for Police Faualo Harry Schuster said Samoa was grateful for all the help they can get from their friends as they gear up for C.H.O.G.M.

“I sincerely appreciate the generous support from the Australian government and the Australian Federal Police through the Samoa Australia Police Partnership (SAPP) that works in conjunction with our Police for kindly donating the nine bikes to be used for our security role as police but importantly for the CHOGM, in escorting our guests upon arrival,” said Faualo.

Assistance consists of nine motorcycles, 18 helmets, 50 motorbike gloves, 100 portable First Aid Kits; and 20 First Aid Kits for Police premises.

The AFP is assisting to build the ability of the Samoa Police by providing ongoing support in these ways, ensuring that they are well-prepared to host C.H.O.G.M. and successfully address any security concerns that may arise during the event, said the statement.

“This collaboration shows Australia and Samoa’s combined efforts to secure the safety and success of the C.H.O.G.M. and other policing projects,” said the statement.