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Suva Fiji, 20 October, 2022: Transnational crimes, especially drug production and trafficking continue to be one of the most challenging and serious issues in the Pacific. The production of methamphetamine, heroin and cocaine trafficking is on the rise and our Pacific islands have become production sites as well as trafficking destinations.
Customs agencies are working hard with other law enforcement agencies to arrest this problem.
This week we welcomed the visit of US Department of State’s Mr. Matt Killian and Mr. Michael Manansala to the OCO to discuss regional maritime security including Illegal, Unreported and Unregulated fishing issues. The discussion also focused on the needs of the OCO Members and potential availability of assistance in improving the Customs system not only with the border security but also emphasize on the trade aspect.
Mr. Killian is the acting Asia Team Lead for the U.S. Department of State’s Bureau of International Narcotics and Law Enforcement Affairs (INL). In this capacity, Matt manages a team of six program officers that cover INL’s portfolio across East Asia and the Pacific. Matt also manages INL’s programs in mainland Southeast Asia and Northeast Asia.
Michael Manansala is a Program Officer for the U.S. Department of State’s Bureau of International Narcotics and Law Enforcement Affairs (INL). In this capacity, Michael oversees INL’s Pacific programs, which include projects on maritime security, cybercrime, wildlife trafficking, law enforcement professionalization, and rule of law.
ENDS
For more information, queries, or interview requests, please email MediaOCO@ocosec.org
About OCO: OCO is a grouping of 23 customs administrations in the Pacific region. It facilitates regional cooperation, information sharing and capacity building of its members with the overall target of supporting economic growth and improved border security in the Pacific.