Australian and Papua New Guinean authorities have completed the latest joint patrol of the Torres Strait and PNG’s Western Province as part of ongoing efforts to protect local communities from organised crime, illegal fishing and cross-border trafficking.
Conducted 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 sits less than four kilometres from the PNG mainland at its closest point and remains one of Australia’s most strategically important border regions.
ABF Assistant Commissioner James Copeman said criminal syndicates continue to try to exploit remote coastlines and traditional movement routes to traffic drugs, weapons and other illicit commodities between the two nations.
The patrol delivered a visible law enforcement presence in those communities and demonstrated the value of our partnership with PNG, he said.
“The Torres Strait is one of the most unique environments we operate in and partnerships are key to our joint success. 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.
AFP Assistant Commissioner Justine Gough said working together with trusted partners is a key part of combating organised criminals operating 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,” Assistant Commissioner 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 bolster 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.
“The QPS is committed to working with our national and PNG partners to support coordinated border security efforts and ensure the Torres Strait remains a safe and secure environment.”
Australian Fisheries Management Authority (AFMA) General Manager Fisheries Operations, Justin Bathurst said AFMA was committed to combatting illegal fishing in the Torres Strait.
“We will continue to work with our partners to detect and deter illegal fishing in Australian waters,” Mr Bathurst said.
Joint Cross Border Patrols have taken place since 1997 and remain a cornerstone of the Australia and PNG security partnership.
Australian and PNG authorities conduct a number of joint patrols across their shared border each year.
Anyone with information about suspicious activity is encouraged to contact Border Watch, with information able to be provided anonymously.
