10 Sep 2004

Vanuatu considers setting up new security force

3:40 pm on 10 September 2004

The Vanuatu Government is considering setting up a separate police unit to protect the Government and investors in times of instability.

An official in the Ministry of Foreign Affairs is putting together a proposal for the Council of Ministers to set up a small, highly trained, commando style security force.

The force of up to 16 personnel will protect the government in the event of a coup attempt and provide security for investors if needed.

The unit would be completely separate from the Vanuatu Mobile Force but consist of the best performers from the police and the VMF.

Meanwhile the government's spokesman, Kal Moli, has confirmed that new aid from China will be used to strengthen the military and police.