Prime Minister and Minister of Police, Prisons and Corrections Services, Laaulialemalietoa Leuatea Polataivao Fosi Schmidt, officially opened the Tuasivi Police Maritime Office on Wednesday 25 February 2026 at the Tuasivi Police Outpost in Savaii.
The ceremony was attended by Australia’s Minister for Foreign Affairs, Honourable Penny Wong, Cabinet ministers, Australian High Commissioner Will Robinson, the acting Commissioner, executive and management of the Samoa Police, Prisons and Corrections Services, and invited guests.
In his keynote address, the Prime Minister said the new office strengthens Samoa’s law enforcement capability in maritime safety, border security and the protection of people and resources. He said Samoa’s ocean remains central to the country’s economy, community links and national identity, while also carrying major responsibilities for security and public safety.
He said the facility will improve operational readiness to safeguard maritime borders, respond to illegal activities at sea, strengthen search and rescue work, and support the safety of fishermen and coastal communities. He also said it ensures the people of Savaii are served by infrastructure that reflects the same commitment to safety and wellbeing.
The Prime Minister acknowledged Australia’s support for the project and said the facility reflects the partnership between Samoa and Australia in policing, security and capacity building. He thanked the Australian Government for its continued assistance in strengthening Samoa’s maritime capability and institutional development.
He told officers who will serve at the new office that the facility must stand as a base of professionalism, integrity and service. He said their work protects lives, safeguards sovereignty and builds public trust.
The Prime Minister said government will continue to invest not only in infrastructure, but also in training, leadership development and institutional strengthening to ensure the Samoa Police, Prisons and Corrections Services remains modern, disciplined and community-focused.
He closed by congratulating the police service, project partners and all those involved in delivering the new office before officially declaring the Tuasivi Police Maritime Office open.
This article was based on the keynote address delivered by Prime Minister Laaulialemalietoa Leuatea Polataivao Fosi Schmidt at the official opening of the Tuasivi Police Maritime Office on 25 February 2026.
