New police vehicles arrive ahead of Forum

Police inspector Tere Patia (left), senior sergeant Cy Kaivananga and senior sergeant Ruta Tane show off three of six new vehicles police have received to increase their visibility in the community and to provide adequate security support for the Pacific Leaders Forum.

As well as the two Suzuki trial motorbikes and a used police car donated by the Australian Federal Police, the local police department has also received three new pickup trucks, one of which has already been sent to Aitutaki.

Inspector Patia is urging the public to take note of the police escort convoys that will be travelling around the island as visiting Pacific and international leaders are transported to various meetings and functions on Rarotonga during the Pacific Leaders Forum starting on August 27.

Police on motorcycles will lead the motorcade of up to 16 vehicles, which will be trailed by another police vehicle.

Motorists must not overtake the VIP motorcade and must pull to the side of the road and stop as it approaches.

Again Inspector Patia stresses to all motorists to be mindful on the roads at all times and to be extra vigilant during the Forum week of meetings.

The Forum will be held in the Cook Islands until August 31.