The Australian Federal Police (AFP) has handed control of the Northwest Point Immigration Detention Centre (IDC) back to the Department of Immigration and Citizenship (DIAC), following an agreement between both agencies.

The hand-back came into effect at 12.05pm (Christmas Island time) on 29 March 2011.

As the situation within the Northwest Point IDC remains in a steady state, it is appropriate for the AFP to hand control back to DIAC as the agency responsible for the operation and maintenance of the facility.

This hand-back will be followed by a transition period, where AFP resources will stand-by to ensure the hand-back occurs seamlessly.

Christmas Island Police will continue to undertake expanded patrols within the Christmas Island community.

The AFP has resources available to effectively and quickly respond to various issues that may arise at the centre or within the community.

The AFP continues to have an expanded presence on Christmas Island.

The AFP currently has 172 members on the island, including general duties officers, investigators, negotiators, protective services officers, operational response group members and logistics support staff.