More Samoa Police officers have enrolled in the close personnel protection (CPP) training program as the law enforcement officers continue to upskill themselves. 

More than 10 police officers have signed up for an upcoming two-week CPP training as part of their preparation for the Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting (CHOGM) in October next year.

The Police have had a taste of how things will be at CHOGM with the recently concluded ACP-EU Samoa Agreement signing giving local organisers insights on how to stay on top as hosts. 

This comprehensive training aims to equip law enforcement personnel with essential skills and knowledge to ensure the safety and security of individuals under their protection. Among the participants, two police officers from the Kingdom of Tonga travelled all the way to Samoa to attend this training.

Additionally, three instructors from the Australian Federal Police (AFP) also made their way to Samoa to support the local Samoa Police Service as well as the Tongan officers. The instructors will share their expertise and guide the participants in acquiring the necessary expertise in close personnel protection.

"The CPP training program will be conducted over a span of two weeks, allowing officers to delve into various aspects of personal protection," said Samoa Police in a statement.

"By the end of the two-week training, the police officers, including the Tongan participants, will have acquired valuable knowledge and practical experience in close personnel protection. 

"This training is expected to enhance their capabilities and contribute to their respective law enforcement agencies' overall effectiveness in safeguarding individuals who require close protection services."

Meanwhile, the Samoa Police are likely to seek support from its neighbours such as Australia, New Zealand and Fiji to boost numbers for the logistical requirements to host CHOGM.

A team from the Australia Pacific Security College paid a visit to Police Commissioner Auapa'au Logoitino Filipo last week. According to the APSC, community policing is a top priority in Samoa and is recognised as essential for keeping Samoa safe. 

"This model empowers communities, giving them the confidence to report criminal activities and actively contribute to the safety of Samoa," APSC said in a statement.

"We had the honour of meeting with our good friend, Samoan Police Commissioner Filipo, and his dedicated team from Samoa Police, Prisons and Corrections Services to discuss regional and national security. In our conversation, community policing stood out as a key strategy for success in law enforcement at the regional level."