Australian and Papua New Guinea complete Joint Cross Border Patrol in the Torres Strait

The Australian Border Force (ABF), Australian Federal Police (AFP), Queensland Police Service (QPS), and Papua New Guinea (PNG) authorities have successfully completed the latest Joint Cross Border Patrol (JCBP) in the Torres Strait.

Running from 22 to 27 September 2025, officers visited communities in Daru, Sigabadaru and Ture Ture in PNG, and Saibai and Boigu Islands in the Torres Strait.

The joint activity forms part of Australia and PNG's shared mission to protect the border from threats such as drugs and firearms trafficking, people smuggling and illegal foreign fishing.

ABF Assistant Commissioner James Copeman said the patrol underlined the strong partnership between agencies on both sides of the border, working together to protect the Torres Strait and support local communities.

"The Torres Strait is a vast and unique environment, and that is why these joint patrols are so important. They bring our officers together with their PNG colleagues, strengthen community trust, and demonstrate our commitment to protecting this special region," AC Copeman said.

"By working closely with PNG agencies, as well as AFP and QPS, we are able to share intelligence, identify risks and take joint action early to protect the border and the communities who live here."

PNG Customs Service (PNGCS) Chief Commissioner David Towe said cooperation and collaboration between Papua New Guinea and Australia was the key to border security for both nations.

"The JCBP initiative has strengthened border security, combated illegal cross-border activities and promoted regional stability," Mr. Towe said.

"Through this collaborative approach we are able to effectively detect, deter and disrupt transnational criminal activities that pose risks to our communities and ensure secure movement of legitimate trade across our borders."

PNG Immigration and Citizenship Services Authority (PNG ICSA) Chief Migration Officer Wellington Navasivu said PNG ICSA was committed to working hand-in-glove with its closest neighbour to ensure a safe and secure region for all.

"We at PNG ICSA are committed to joining forces with our closest neighbours to ensure safe, strong and secure borders for Australia and PNG," Mr Navasivu said.

"The partnerships we hold both domestically and abroad are key to our success and should serve as a strong deterrent to those who seek to exploit our countries for their gain."

AFP acting Assistant Commissioner Stephen Jay said the Australia and Papua New Guinea Joint Cross Border Patrol in the Torres Strait highlighted the AFP's commitment to keeping communities safe.

"We will continue to work with partners to address the threat of transnational serious organised crime which continues to impact both Australia and Papua New Guinea," a/Assistant Commissioner Jay said.

"Criminals are not constrained by international borders and police need to be linked on a global scale to deter and disrupt their activity. The AFP is proud to partner with the Royal Papua New Guinea Constabulary, Papua New Guinea Customs Service, Queensland Police Service and ABF in this vital activity in the Torres Strait.

"Sharing resources to work alongside Pacific law enforcement agencies and domestic partners is vital for improving the security across borders, and for collectively countering the evolving regional security threats posed by organised criminals."

QPS Torres Strait Patrol Group Acting Inspector Nathan Chirio said the Torres Strait presents a unique policing challenge for Queensland Police.

"The joint patrols are vital in ensuring the safety of the islands and local communities, and help us maintain strong relationships with Papua New Guinea authorities," Acting Inspector Chirio said.

"We're grateful for the cooperation of ABF and AFP and will continue proactive operations to detect, disrupt and prevent illegal activities in the area."

Community information activities were conducted as part of the patrol, promoting the ABF Border Watch program that enables the public to report the suspicious movements of goods and people. This information often leads directly to operational outcomes.

JCBPs began in 1997 and are a strong example of Australia and PNG's cooperation on border protection. The patrols provide a visible and practical demonstration of agencies working together to protect their shared border.

Supported by Cape-Class Patrol Boats, fast-response vessels, helicopters, surveillance aircraft and locally recruited Border Monitoring Officers, up to six patrols are conducted each year.

Anyone with information about possible illegal activity at the border is encouraged to report it to ABF's Border Watch. Information can be provided anonymously.