Samoa Police joins Pacific Law Enforcement Partners to enhance Cyber Safety

APIA, SAMOA – 25 JULY 2023: Samoa Police, Prisons and Corrections Services have joined forces with Pacific Law Enforcement Partners and international stakeholders to boost Cybercrime investigations and Awareness skills. This is part of the Australian Federal Police (AFP) led Cyber Safety Pasefika (CSP) that focuses on Cybercrime Investigation, Training and delivering Cyber Safety Education and Awareness programs.

This unique program provides law enforcement with the tools and resources needed to remain one step ahead of cybercriminals. It also helps them better protect their citizens from cybercrime threats in the Pacific.

CSP’s awareness and education program enables Pacific police partners to deliver presentations to their communities about safely navigating the digital landscape. The program also aims at developing some Trainers in order to assist Pacific police deliver the CSP courses in the future.

In opening the training course, the Acting Commissioner Leiataua Samuelu Afamasaga highlighted that the investigation program helps participants understand and investigate cyber and technology-enabled crimes and to respond to cyber threats in their unique environments.

“This course will provide you with the skills and knowledge to succeed in this field. You will learn about the different types of cybercrime, the tools and techniques used by cyber criminals and the legal framework to investigate and prosecute cybercrimes,” Leiataua said.

He added, “You will also have the opportunity to develop your problem-solving and analytical skills, and apply them to the real world” Furthermore, he encouraged participants to make the most of the training.

“Blue Pacific can be made safer using the skills and knowledge you gain from this training,” said Leiataua.

The participants trained in cyber education and awareness.

AFP Senior Officer Detective Superintendent Daniel Evans reminded law enforcers about the importance of networking and collaboration.

Evans concluded, “Participants have a significant responsibility to share what they have learned and to promote education and awareness for the sake of keeping our kids, parents and nations safe.”

The program concluded last Friday with Samoa Police, Prisons and Corrections Services Deputy Commissioner Lafaitele Herbert Aati stressing the importance of educating the public about the rise in cybercrimes.

“Keeping people aware is the key to staying ahead in the Pacific region,” Lafaitele emphasized.

Additionally, Lafaitele stated that if 70% to 80% of our communities know cyber effects, this is a success.”

He explained, “It is imperative to work together to ensure a secure and prosperous future for our community.”

Participants’ feedback was overwhelmingly positive, with many stating the course was informative and engaging. The course facilitators were delighted to see participants’ enthusiasm and engagement.

The Cyber Safety Pasefika was established by the Pacific Island Chiefs of Police (PICP) in order to raise cyber safety awareness in vulnerable Pacific communities and increasing Pacific police skills in investigating cybercrimes. It is supported by the Australian Federal Police through the Pacific Development Program – Regional (PDP-R)

The Cyber Safety Pasefika training course had Pacific participants from Tonga, Tuvalu, Fiji, Kiribati, Tokelau, Nauru and Samoa join this invaluable training.