The Samoa Police Prisons and Corrections Services (SPPCS) has officially accepted the Guardian Class patrol boat, Nafanua III from the Australian government.

The official handover ceremony was held in Australia with Samoa's Minister for Police, Prisons and Corrections Services, Faualo Harry Schuster accepting the vessel on behalf of the Samoa government. 

He was accompanied to Australia by the Police Commissioner, Auapa’au Logoitino Filipo and executive members Assistant Commissioner, Leausalilō Norman Meni as well as the ACEO Naomi Claire Harris according to a media release issued Wednesday by the SPPCS.

Delivering his keynote address, Minister Faualo Dster emphasised the importance of Samoa Police receiving the Guardian Class Patrol Boat.

“This handover ceremony of the vessel represents a significant step forward in Samoa’s maritime security capabilities and underscores Australia's commitment to strengthening maritime security in the Pacific region," said Minister Faualo. 

He said that the handover “solidifies the strong partnership between Australia and Samoa, demonstrating their shared interest in safeguarding regional security and prosperity as highlighted in the ‘Boe Declaration’". 

The Guardian Class Patrol Boat, Nafanua III, is a state-of-the-art vessel that will greatly enhance Samoa's ability to safeguard its territorial waters and protect its citizens from maritime security threats. With its advanced capabilities and cutting-edge technology, the Nafanua III will play a crucial role in maintaining law and order at sea and deterring illegal activities. 

Minister Faualo expressed gratitude to the government of Australia for its continuous support for Samoa's security efforts. This assistance demonstrates Australia's commitment to regional stability, cooperation, and security. 

In addition, he also apologised on behalf of the Samoan government for the running aground of the Nafanua II patrol boat on a reef off the coast of Salelologa in Savai'i in August 2021. 

"While in this regard, we respectfully wish to take this opportunity to apologise to the Australian government for this shortcoming," said the Minister. "The Samoa Police acknowledges the Australian Government's continued support and assistance during the absence of a patrol boat. 

"We appreciate the commitment and dedication shown by the Australian Government in helping us secure our maritime borders and protect national interests.

"The gifting of the Nafanua III has not only provided our maritime law enforcement unit with a much-needed asset but also demonstrated Australia's commitment to regional security and cooperation. It is through the continued support of like-minded partners like Australia that we can ensure the security and well-being of our island nation."

The ceremony was led by the Australian M.P. Tania Lawrence on behalf of the Australian government and Minister Faualo from the Samoan government. The signing ceremony marked the culmination of months of meticulous planning and cooperation between the Australian Government and the Samoan government. 

The event was also witnessed by the C.E.O. of Austal Ltd Patrick Gregg, senior representatives from participating departments and agencies of the Australian government, members of the Samoan community, and our local maritime officers who will be responsible for bringing the vessel home. 

The ceremony concluded with the official signing of the handover documents to mark the transfer of ownership of the Nafanua IIGuardian Class Patrol Boat from the Australian to the Samoan government. The Nafanua III is expected to arrive in Samoa on Saturday 20 January 2024.