Training for customs officers

AN existing partnership between PNG and Australian Customs has seen PNG officers gain valuable training on operating X-ray machines at sea and air ports.
The week-long training in Port Moresby last week was conducted by Australian Customs officers through the Sapotim Gavman Programme (SGP) under the border security project.
Nine PNG Customs officers from Lae, Kokopo and Port Moresby received certificates from the Australian Customs and border protection services.
Customs Commissioner Gary Juffa appreciated the support of the Australian team and said the training was vital to facilitate and equip his officers with international practice standards.
“This training will ensure our Customs officers perform to the best to serve and protect the people of PNG,” he said.
Mr Juffa said the new X-ray machines would further strengthen the checks at the air and sea ports to ensure illegal and prohibited goods and items were not smuggled into the country.
“The threat of regional and international illegal activities by transnational crime elements, including terrorists, is ever present.
“Customs will continue to train and equip officers to counter these threats,” Mr Juffa said.
Aside from the training, PNG Customs has also increased staffing levels, purchased X-ray scanners, patrol boats and has  armed its officers.