Nauru police now stationed at Regional Processing Centre
The Government of Nauru has
increased security at the Island's Regional Processing Centre (RPC)
with two police officers now stationed there and able to respond
seven days a week.
Acting Commissioner of Nauru Police Superintendent Kalinda Blake
says the officers operate from RPC 1 and are the first point of
contact for any incident requiring police investigation.
She said the move was not a response to recent allegations made at
an Australian Government Senate Inquiry, but a measure "designed to
make it easier for those who want to file a complaint, whether they
be asylum-seekers, RPC employees or anyone else who works at the
centre."
Supt Blake confirmed one female officer trained in dealing with
sexual assault investigations will always be on hand at the
RPC.
"Our police are one of the best-trained in the Pacific with most
receiving education and training from Australian Federal Police
advisors. As a matter of protocol, one female officer
from our sexual assault unit will be on call at all times to assist
with any claims of misconduct and misbehaviour."
Now into their second week, Nauru's RPC-based police have so far
dealt with misdemeanours ranging from petty theft to noise
violations.
The police have also been warmly welcomed by the centre's
employees and asylum seekers, according to the Acting
Commissioner.
"It has been smooth so far with all complaints settled quickly.
Knowing that help is just a few steps away brings peace of mind to
those at the centre."