Fiji strengthens border security with new technology at Nadi airport

Fiji is strengthening its ability to detect and respond to transnational crime with new border security technology backed by Australia.

The Fiji Revenue and Customs Service (FRCS), in partnership with the Australian Border Force (ABF), officially opened a new closed-circuit television (CCTV) capability and multi-purpose room at Nadi International Airport on Friday.

Officiating at the event, Australian High Commissioner to Fiji Peter Roberts said the investment was timely because the Pacific faced increasing threats from transnational criminals, including those attempting to bring drugs into the region.

“We’re facing increasing threats from transnational criminals, including people who want to bring drugs into the region, and we need to work together to address that,” Mr Roberts said.

The new CCTV capability and control room will strengthen Fiji’s situational awareness, threat protection and ability to respond to security incidents.

“Today’s event reflects the strength of the Vuvale relationship, the Fiji-Australia relationship,” he said.

“Particularly our shared commitment to secure our borders for safe travel and to allow a prosperous and resilient Fiji and the region.”

The facility was delivered with support from the Australian Government through the Vuvale Partnership Programme.

Mr Roberts said the investment in infrastructure, technology, equipment and professional development would strengthen Fiji’s ability to detect threats, disrupt transnational crime, protect communities, facilitate legitimate trade and investment, and protect the integrity of its borders.

FRCS chief executive officer Udit Singh said the new facility represented a major step forward for Fiji’s border management and national security.

“The capability we launched represents a significant step forward in strengthening Fiji’s border security. It will enhance our situational awareness, strengthen frontline operations, and improve our ability to identify, assess, and respond to emerging risks,” Mr Singh said.

The facility will also improve coordination and decision-making among border agencies.

As Fiji continues to grow as a regional hub for tourism, aviation, trade, and commerce, the challenges facing border agencies will become increasingly complex.

“This requires us to remain intelligence-led, risk-focused, technologically enabled and united in our approach to border management and security,” he said.