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AKARTA: The Australian Federal Police (AFP) has donated A$20 million (US$18 million) worth of equipment to the Indonesian border police to facilitate interception of boat people heading for Australia through Indonesian waters.

“The assistance is provided solely for the purpose of curbing people smuggling, although the technology can also be used for other police efforts,” National Police detective chief Comr. Gen. Ito Sumardi told reporters.

The assistance consists of transportation, surveillance and identification equipment. All equipment would be granted as components, which will later be assembled in Indonesia, Ito said, adding that Australia offered the assistance as a token of appreciation for Indonesia’s role in helping stem the flow of boat people illegally entering Australian territory. —JP