The Solomon Islands Excise Division have recently received 3 x Smiths-Heimann X-Ray Scanning Machines donated by the Australian Border Force (ABF).
In addition to the donation of the scanning units the ABF have also rendered further assistance by arranging for the manufacturers of the technology, “Smiths Detection” to send a technician to Honiara to re-generate the units and ensure they are operational and safe to use.
Thereafter, the ABF sent two of its Senior Technology CATO’s (Competency and Training Officers) to Honiara to train 15 Customs Officers and 5 Biosecurity Officers.
As Customs and Biosecurity are the two primary frontline border security agencies with legislative jurisdiction over all incoming international cargo and passengers baggage it is vitally important for us to work together and cooperate in the clearance process on a day to day basis as well sharing training opportunities as opportunities arise.
This critical training was delivered over four days in the classroom and on-site at our King Warehouse and Air Cargo sites. Topics included Radiation Safety, Image Analysis as well as Components of the machines and procedures for starting, shutting down and troubleshooting.
Extensive Image Analysis and Screen Interpretation has provided participants with the base knowledge to identify a variety of border risk items such as Narcotics, Quarantine Items, Wildlife, Revenue, Currency, prohibited Imports, Explosive Devices and Firearms.
The use of these X-Ray Scanners will allow Customs and Biosecurity Officers to search for and intercept these prohibited items for referral to the appropriate authority without the need to open each package blindly one by one. The increased efficiency to quickly scan more packages strengthens our border security capability.
-MOFT Press