Tonga police and customs strengthen detector dog program to better intercept illegal items at Tonga's border 

A Pacific Detector Dog Working Arrangement, signed this month between New Zealand Customs and Police and Tonga Police and Customs will strengthen Tonga’s ability to combat transnational crime.

The updated arrangement will enhance Tonga’s ability to use detector dogs to intercept illicit drugs, cash and firearms at the border and stop them from causing harm in the community. Two detector dogs teams will be established in Vava'u.

The signing took place at the Tonga Police Headquarters during the visit of New Zealand Prime Minister the Rt. Hon. Christopher Luxon. The arrangement was signed by New Zealand’s Comptroller and Chief Executive of Customs, Christine Stevenson, and Commissioner of Police, Richard Chambers, alongside Tonga’s Police Commissioner, Geoff Turner, and Customs CEO, Michael Cokanasiga.

New Zealand will continue to provide specialist support including the supply of detector dogs, detector dog training, handler development, operational advice and equipment.

Meanwhile, Tongan authorities will provide local handlers, vehicles, kennelling, operational support, and an annual operating budget to ensure long-term sustainability.

Vava'u

New Zealand Customs, New Zealand Police and Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade are also providing funding and support to construct a secure, purpose-built detector dog facility in Vava’u.

Vava’u receives a large number of visiting yachts each year and is a known transit route for transnational organised crime. This facility will accommodate up to two detector dog teams and significantly strengthen Tonga Customs’ and Police’s ability to target high-risk cargo and travellers.

Once the kennel facility is built, New Zealand will be supplying two additional dog teams – one for Tonga Customs, and one for Tonga Police.

Christine Stevenson said the arrangements with Tonga and also Samoa reflect a shared commitment to disrupt transnational, serious and organised crime and strengthen border security for all three countries.