SOUTHERN Ports has partnered with Crime Stoppers to encourage disruption of the illicit drug trade.
Under the partnership, Southern Ports plans to share information with Crime Stoppers so that port workers can identify and report organised crime activities without putting themselves or their families at risk.
Southern Ports CEO Keith Wilks said everyone involved in Australia’s supply chain has a responsibility to help combat the illicit drug trade.
“Southern Ports is committed to the highest standards of security within our ports – which extends to working with law enforcement agencies and Crime Stoppers to ensure that our industry is not exploited by organised crime groups,” Mr Wilks said.
“By working together, the partnership aims to raise awareness of the danger of the illegal drug trade and provide those who work in and around our port with the tools they need to protect themselves and our community.
“This partnership with Crime Stoppers adds to our existing relationship with Australian Border Force in working with law enforcement agencies to combat illegal trade.”
Vince Hughes, CEO of Crime Stoppers WA, said people linked to the drug trade often reach a point where they become concerned for personal safety or the safety of their family and look for a way out.
He said Crime Stoppers enables those people to anonymously share what they know about organised criminal networks. He welcomed the partnership with Southern Ports.
“This partnership is an important step in our fight against the illegal drug trade and we encourage all workers in the supply chain to report any suspicious activity to Crime Stoppers.
“Our campaign has been funded by the Australian government through a Proceeds of Crime Act grant, which is using $3.55 million from seized criminal assets to turn the tables on organised crime and help law enforcement unsettle domestic drug markets and disrupt national and international supply chains.”
According to Southern Ports, Crime Stoppers partnered with Ports Australia this year to promote the National Illicit Drugs Campaign.
The 6-month campaign has been developed in consultation with police, industry groups and other law enforcement agencies, and engages the transport, freight and logistics sectors.
