The Oceania Customs Organization has recorded an increase in locally manufactured drugs that are either being exported or transitioned through the Asia-Pacific border.
Head Secretariat, Seve Paeniu, says methamphetamine is the most prolific illegal drug in the region as its value and demand is high in the market.
“We’re seeing some evidence of local production – so not only local consumption but local production for being able to market that not only nationally but across the borders. We are continuing to conduct training on investigation techniques and interrogation for our customs officials to equip them with those knowledge and skills.”
OCO says the region is often used as a channel for transferring illegal drugs and they will be looking at providing more security to ensure islands in the Pacific are protected.
