PNG Customs reinforces presence on Samarai Island

 23 June, 2023
PNG Customs reinforces presence on Samarai Island

As the premier border security agency, PNG Customs determination to reinforce and enhance its presence at strategic border points in Papua New Guinea culminated in the commissioning of a new boat shed and staff accommodation on Samarai Island in the Milne Bay Province early this month.

This development will be followed up by the construction of a boat ramp and the delivery of a boat to Samarai Island in the near future.

Customs Commissioner for Border Security and Regional Operations Benjamin Sine officially opened the two new facilities on behalf of Chief Commissioner David Towe saying “Coming back to Samarai Island is a big and important move for us.”

He said Customs is aware of reports of illegal trading activities, particularly drug trafficking, taking place on the islands located around Samarai Island therefore it is important for Customs to re-establish its presence in the area.

He said Samarai Island is strategically located with so many islands around it and in recent times we have heard about drug cases and illegal activities taking place in the area.

"It is good to be positioned here so that we can control and monitor what is happening around here and the surrounding atolls", he added.

The commissioning ceremony was witnessed by representatives from the Department of National Planning, Finance, Treasury, the Milne Bay Provincial Government and Administration, Ward councilors, PNG Customs executives and officers and members of the community.

Milne Bay Deputy Governor Lelena Metoa commended Customs for re-establishing its operations on the Island and reiterated the concern for border security.

"Milne Bay is the biggest maritime province in the country that shares local and international borders", he said. "With international borders comes the big responsibility of border security."

He said the Milne Bay Provincial Government has always been supportive of the project since its inception and was happy to be able to assist when required.

Samarai Island also holds a significant historical importance to Customs often referred to as the ‘birth place’ of Customs in Papua New Guinea.

The first ever Customs port was established on Samarai Island in 1888 when the island served as the principal port and chief mission station for the British Colony.


Authorized by
David Towe
Chief Commissioner of Customs
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