Editor's note: Video availble here and here. Additional images available here.
The Australian Border Force (ABF), Australian Defence Force, Marine Rescue volunteers from the Department of Fire and Emergency Services Marine Rescue and Western Australia Police Force have concluded a successful, highly visible operation in WA's remote Abrolhos Islands.
ABF officers from the ABF Geraldton District Office have patrolled the remote island group in WA's Mid-West, gathering intelligence about the unique environment, communicating with a number of vessels and engaging with the local community and tourists.
The ABF undertakes operational activity in regional and remote areas to target drug smuggling, using a mix of intelligence-led targeting and officer intuition.
ABF Supervisor Justin Donaldson said this operation has increased the capability of inter-agency surveillance and response at any point along the 21,000km WA coast (including island groups).
“A key part of this patrol was engaging with the local community of fishermen. Our BorderWatch program gives us eyes and ears in this remote location, 60 nautical miles off the WA coast and close to international shipping lanes." ABF Supervisor Donaldson said.
“While each agency has their own goals and remits, this opportunity to learn from each other greatly enhances our common goal of protecting the Australian community, including in remote locations, from potential threats."
In 2017, the ABF and law enforcement partners made a record breaking seizure of methamphetamine. A total of 1.2 tonnes were seized after a vessel arrived in the Geraldton Port.
The community will always have a role to play in protecting our border. Locals know their environment, and what looks or sounds suspicious
Anyone with information about suspicious activity which may impact the security of Australia's borders is urged to report to Border Watch online. By reporting suspicious activities, you help protect Australia's border and the community.
Media contact: media@abf.gov.au
