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Posted by David Sexton
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5 June, 2026
AUTHORITIES from Australia and Papua New Guinea recently completed the latest joint patrol across the Torres Strait and PNG’s Western Province as part of efforts to protect local communities from organised crime, illegal fishing and cross-border trafficking.
From 20 to 24 April 2026, the patrol brought together border, police, fisheries and immigration officers from both nations to visit Daru Island, and Bula, Jara and Tais villages in PNG, as well as Saibai Island and surrounding waters in the Torres Strait.
The Torres Strait is less than four kilometres from the PNG mainland at its closest point.
ABF assistant commissioner James Copeman said criminal syndicates continued to try to exploit remote coastlines and traditional movement routes to traffic drugs, weapons and other illicit commodities.
“The Torres Strait is right on Australia’s doorstep, and these patrols send a clear message that Australia and PNG are working together to stop criminals exploiting remote communities and border vulnerabilities,” AC Copeman said.
“The ABF and our partner agencies are committed to protecting the communities.”
AFP assistant commissioner Justine Gough said working together with trusted partners was a key part of combating organised criminals at Australia’s border.
“The AFP has strong ties with our Pacific family and is committed to facing strategic challenges and finding tangible solutions to the unique threats at the border between PNG and North Queensland,” AC Gough said.
“Organised criminals have consistently sought to find vulnerabilities in our region to exploit for profit. This joint activity shows our joint intelligence, resources and capabilities are poised to effectively target illicit operations.
“Our PNG colleagues are valued and trusted partners for the AFP, and together we are resolute in protecting our region from threats which undermine community safety and security.”
Queensland Police Service (QPS) Far North District Chief Superintendent Kevin Fitzgibbon said the patrols bolstered the strong police presence in the Torres Strait.
“These joint patrols are an important opportunity to strengthen our ability to respond to emerging threats in a geographically challenging area,” Chief Superintendent Fitzgibbon said.
Australian Fisheries Management Authority (AFMA) general manager fisheries operations, Justin Bathurst said AFMA was committed to combatting illegal fishing in the Torres Strait.
Joint Cross Border Patrols have taken place since 1997 and have been described as “a cornerstone” of the Australia and PNG security partnership.
Australian and PNG authorities conduct several joint patrols across their shared border each year.
