AFP members posted in 33 countries around the world have shared Christmas messages as they prepare to spend the holidays away from families and friends.
Members living in Pakistan, Serbia, Mexico, South Africa, Sri Lanka and more have wished Australians a safe and happy Christmas, and thanked their families for their support while undertaking important work overseas to help keep Australians safe.
The AFP has almost 200 members located across 33 countries, working closely with law enforcement partners to protect Australians and Australia's national interests.
The AFP recorded 266 international disruptions and seized over 20 tonnes of illicit drugs in 2022, highlighting the AFP's significant reach across the globe, its strong relationships with partners and capability.
AFP members posted overseas play an important role in combatting transnational crime by taking the fight against crime offshore. They are also involved in capacity-building missions, contributing to regional stability and respond to international incidents.
Highlights of the AFP's work internationally in 2022 include:
- The AFP hosted and chaired the Five Eyes Law Enforcement Group, committing to reinvigorate the group and its operational impact;
- AFP Commissioner Reece Kershaw attended significant meetings with counterparts, including at ASEANAPOL, the INTERPOL General assembly in India, in Europe and at the Pacific Islands Chiefs of Police Conference in Fiji; and
- On 17 November 2022, the court of The Hague ruled in the MH17 criminal case. The verdict helped bring a sense of justice for the next of kin and the AFP members who worked tirelessly throughout the investigation.
AFP Assistant Commissioner International Command Mike Pannett thanked the men and women working offshore to help protect those at home.
"It has been an extremely busy year for the AFP's International Command, resulting in some great outcomes for the AFP and Australia," Assistant Commissioner Pannett said.
"Over the past 12 months, the AFP has successfully supported global security, safety and stability through collaborative and targeted partnerships with international law enforcement and other agencies, while maintaining its very strong reputation.
"I thank the fantastic and invaluable work done by the AFP overseas this year, and I am especially thinking about those away from their families this Christmas.
"I am looking forward to another strong year in 2023, where we will continue to build on the great work done this year."
