Australian Federal Police Protection (AFP) officers will now be armed with short-barrelled rifles (SBRs) and specialised first-response-capabilities in designated Australian airports from today.
“There is no elevated threat level in airports. The rollout is designed to ensure Australia aligns with world-best-practice for counter terrorism first response activity. It is vital we are equipped to respond immediately with the appropriate resources to any situation in the airport environment,” Commissioner Kershaw said.
“Members of the public should be aware while there will be no changes to the way they move through Australian airports, they will start seeing Protection Operation Response Team (PORT) officers patrolling alongside general duties members, specialised firearm and explosive detection canines and Rapid Appraisal Officers; who are responsible for rapid, targeted assessment of potential explosive threats.”
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