The Fiji Police Force received a major boost in their search and rescue operations at sea after the Japanese Government handed over $5.5 million worth of maritime safety and security equipment.
This includes one patrol boat, 22 rescue boats, 11 inflatable boats, underwater communication devices and cameras and 31 scuba diving equipment sets.
While receiving the equipment, Minister for Defence and National Security Inia Seruiratu says this has come at the right time as there has been a recent increase in natural disasters.
Seruiratu says this will help police in special drug operations and coastal harbour patrols.
Japanese Ambassador to Fiji, Kawakami Fumihiro says he is hoping that this will provide further assistance to Police as a number of boats given by Japan were used for rescue operations during the recent flooding.
