THE inaugural Pacific Police Tattoo event has been hailed a resounding success, bringing together over 100 police musicians from nine Pacific nations in a spectacular cultural and musical showcase.
The event was held in conjunction with the Pacific Policing Forum held earlier this week in Port Moresby.
Acting Prime Minister John Rosso praised the event as more than just a performance and described it as a powerful symbol of unity among Pacific law enforcement agencies.
“The Pacific Policing Tattoo highlighted culture and ceremony alongside the right balance of humor for a truly outstanding day,” Mr Rosso said in his closing address yesterday.
“What we have witnessed is more than a performance, it is a powerful symbol of the unity that binds our Pacific family. Through discipline, music and culture, our police forces have demonstrated that we share common values and a common purpose.”
Mr Rosso acknowledged PNG Police Commissioner David Manning for initiating the event as a celebration of regional unity and in commemoration of Papua New Guinea’s 50th anniversary as an independent state.
The event, hosted by the Royal Papua New Guinea Constabulary (RPNGC) with support from the Australian Federal Police (AFP), was held at Sir Hubert Murray Stadium and was broadcast on NBC and livestreamed globally.
Police Minister Peter Tsiamalili Jr emphasized the significance of both the Tattoo and the Forum in strengthening cross-border policing to counter international criminal threats.
“Police in countries around the region are working closer together today than ever before in the fight against international criminal syndicates,” he said.
“The fight against international crime requires cross-border policing co-operation so we can better protect our people. Papua New Guinea, being the largest Pacific Island Nation, must take a leadership role alongside Australia and other Pacific countries.”
Police Commissioner Manning also highlighted the importance of the Tattoo in reinforcing partnerships while giving police forces a platform to showcase their creative and cultural sides.
“This Pacific Tattoo has not only deepened the bonds between our organisations, it has demonstrated the strength of regional policing partnerships in action,” he said.
He commended all participating bands, with special recognition for the Royal Tonga Police Force Band, which took out the Overall Performance Award for their creative and culturally rich performance.
Other award winners included:
• Fiji Police Force Band – Spirit of the Tattoo
• Samoa Royal Police Band – Fan Favorite
• RPNGC Band – Drill Display Award, led by Inspector Lucas Nege
Royal Tonga Police Force Band Leader, Superintendent Suisa Tonga Moinoa, said his team was honored to take part in the inaugural event
“We feel honored and grateful. But first of all, and most importantly, we give thanks to God,” he said.
“Our mission in travelling to Papua New Guinea for the Tattoo was to share our musical talent and connect with our fellow Pacific police band members.”
AFP Assistant Commissioner for Pacific Command Nigel Ryan, who attended the events with Deputy Commissioner Lesa Gale, reaffirmed Australia’s commitment to Pacific partnerships.
“The AFP is a preferred partner of choice in the Pacific for peace, security and prosperity,” AC Ryan said.
“What the Tattoo has done is bring together police tradition with Pacific music and culture, showcasing and strengthening our partnerships in ways that go beyond simply policing.”
The nine participating police bands were:
• Royal Papua New Guinea Constabulary Band
• PNG Correctional Services Band
• Australian Federal Police Pipes and Drums
• New Zealand Police Pipe Band
• Samoa Royal Police Band
• Fiji Police Force Band
• Royal Solomon Islands Police Force Band
• Nauru Police Force Band
• Royal Tonga Police Force Band