September 24, 2024
MEDIA RELEASE
Tuesday, 24th September 2024 – Earlier this morning, a formal ceremony took place at the Police Interim at Matautu to mark the conclusion of the three-week Basic Motorcycle Training. This training was particularly significant as it featured the participation of 10 officers from the Vanuatu Police Force. For the first time in the history of the Samoa Police, Prisons & Corrections Services (SPPCS), police officers from outside the Pacific region were trained by SPPCS instructors, underscoring the growing role of Samoa Police in regional law enforcement development.
The event was attended by Commissioner Auapa’au Logoitino Filipo, members of the SPPCS Executive, and Senior Management, highlighting the importance of the occasion. The program commenced with an opening prayer led by Inspector Filipo Iloilo, who set the tone for the ceremony with reflections that embodied the spirit of unity and achievement.
Commissioner Auapa’au Logoitino Filipo delivered the keynote address, commending the 10 officers from the Vanuatu Police Force for their commitment and successful completion of the training. The Commissioner underscored the significance of this milestone, noting that only a year ago, Samoa Police officers were themselves receiving motorcycle training from the Fiji Police, facilitated by Acting Commissioner Juki Fong Chew and his team. He further acknowledged the ongoing support of the Australian Federal Police (AFP) through the Samoa-Australia Police Partnership (SAPP), which played a key role in making the training possible. Special mention was made of Detective Superintendent Daniel Evans of the AFP for his continued assistance.
Motorcycle instructor Sergeant Eliu Iakopo provided an insightful overview of the training, detailing the participants’ development and new competencies in motorcycle handling and safety. This training not only enhanced the operational skills of the Vanuatu officers but also reinforced the bond between the two forces.
As part of the ceremony, each participant was awarded a certificate, marking their successful completion of the program. Inspector William Thomas, a senior officer from the Vanuatu Police Force, expressed gratitude on behalf of his colleagues to the SPPCS, Commissioner Auapa’au Logoitino Filipo, AFP Detective Superintendent Daniel Evans, and the dedicated motorcycle instructors Sergeant Eliu Iakopo and Constable Faautu Junior Manu.
In a gesture of appreciation, the Vanuatu officers presented gifts to the SPPCS Commissioner, SPPCS leadership, and Detective Superintendent Daniel Evans, symbolizing the strengthening partnership between the forces.
To culminate the event, the Vanuatu officers, accompanied by their SPPCS instructors, showcased their newly acquired skills by riding their motorcycles in a demonstration along Vaiala and back to the Police Interim. This public display of their proficiency reflected both their confidence and the success of the training program.
The SPPCS remains committed to building regional partnerships and enhancing the capabilities of its officers and counterparts across the Pacific through such impactful training initiatives.