A pivotal moment for public safety and security in Samoa unfolded on Friday evening with the launch of three significant initiatives aimed at strengthening emergency response capabilities. 

Hosted at the Taumeasina Island Resort, the Samoa Police, Prisons and Corrections Services, alongside partners and key stakeholders, unveiled projects that will enhance safety, particularly in light of the upcoming Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting (C.H.O.G.M.).

Laulu Angelo Chan Mow, the Assistant Chief Executive Officer of the Information and Communications Division within Samoa's Police Service, addressed attendees about the importance of these projects in ensuring a safer environment for all Samoans. 

The initiatives included the introduction of a new Emergency Radio Network (E.R.N.), the implementation of Closed-Circuit Television (C.C.T.V.) systems, and the announcement of the new Police Operations Center.

In his remarks, Laulu detailed findings from a comprehensive study conducted in September 2022 in collaboration with the Australian Federal Police (A.F.P.) and relevant government agencies highlighting vulnerabilities in the existing network. 

The assessment revealed that much of the network was unencrypted, with half of its sites non-operational and outdated posing significant risks to national security as preparations for C.H.O.G.M. commenced.

The review’s findings were presented to Cabinet for approval, emphasising the urgent need for improvements. 

As a result, the responsibility for the project was transferred to the Police, with A.F.P. expressing interest in providing financial support. 

A Project Reference Group was established, chaired by Police Commissioner Auapa'au Logoitino Filipo, to offer strategic direction for the initiatives. 

This included replacing the outdated E.R.N. with a secure B25 network, recognised as the gold standard for communication systems in public safety and emergency services.

The upgraded network will serve all essential government agencies, while the Safer City C.C.T.V. cameras will be installed in the Central Business District and areas with high crime rates. 

These installations enhance police responsiveness and preparedness, ensuring greater public safety as the nation gears up for C.H.O.G.M. The enhancements will facilitate quicker responses and improved monitoring of priority areas.

The investment for these critical projects exceeded $14 million, funded through the Samoa-Australia Police Bilateral budget, the Pacific Police and Infrastructure project, and additional contributions from the Law Enforcement Cooperation program. 

Laulu expressed gratitude for the technical support provided by A.F.P. and recognised the hard work, dedication, and resilience of the Samoa Police ICT team in achieving these milestones in a remarkably short time.

Australian High Commissioner Will Robinson expressed pride in representing Australia and acknowledged the fruitful partnership with Samoa Police in reaching these significant achievements. He commended the Samoa Police and the government for their commitment to enhancing public safety.

Minister of Police and Prison Faualo Harry Schuster echoed these sentiments, thanking everyone involved in making these initiatives a reality. 

He conveyed heartfelt appreciation to the Government of Australia and A.F.P. for their unwavering support in advancing policing efforts in Samoa.

As Samoa steps into a new era of safety and preparedness, these initiatives underscore a collective commitment to ensuring a secure environment for all citizens and visitors.