ERN Network Expanded at Police Headquarters

The Samoa Police, Prisons & Corrections Services (SPPCS) is proud to announce the successful installation and activation of the 14th site for the Emergency Radio Network (ERN), strategically located at the Police Headquarters in Apia. This new site is not just an addition to the network — it marks a transformative step forward in strengthening Samoa’s national emergency communications infrastructure.

The ERN plays a vital role in ensuring secure and reliable communication between all frontline agencies — including Samoa Police, the Samoa Fire and Emergency Services Authority (FESA), the Disaster Management Office – Samoa (DMO), and other key ministries — particularly during emergencies, natural disasters, and critical operations. With this 14th site, the ERN now offers enhanced coverage and coordination across Upolu, Savai’i, and remote areas throughout Samoa.

The 14th site serves multiple key functions:

Expands signal coverage and network redundancy for central Apia and surrounding areas

Acts as a remote support and command node, enabling the ICT team to diagnose and resolve minor technical issues without needing to travel to remote sites

Monitors, detects, and addresses potential technical issues before they pose a risk to the network, maintaining secure and consistent communication across all ERN sites

In addition, the ERN network was further enhanced by the commissioning of a Network Time Protocol (NTP) Server, which ensures synchronized time across all devices on the network — a critical component for system accuracy, event logging, and troubleshooting.

This important development was made possible through the continued partnership with the Australian Federal Police (AFP), whose funding support enabled the success of this expansion.

The work was led by Derek, a Motorola Solutions Technician from Australia, in close collaboration with Principal Technician Tapasu Asotasi Time, ERN Specialist Patrick Kamsoo, IT Consultant Changwang Fua, and the dedicated SPPCS ICT Support Team.

Together, this team has contributed to building a more resilient and responsive emergency communications network — one that ensures our frontline responders remain connected, equipped, and supported at all times.

Modern infrastructure. Stronger response. A safer Samoa.