OSCE Centre holds training on bomb disposal for law enforcement officers in Kyrgyzstan

BISHKEK, 16 May 2011 - A two-week bomb disposal training course to strengthen Kyrgyz law enforcement officers' skills in handling explosive devices, organized by the OSCE Centre in Bishkek, began today.

Some 32 officers from various law enforcement bodies are taking part in the course, held at the Internal Troops’ Training Centre, which was renovated with OSCE Centre support in 2009.

The course focuses on the theoretical and practical aspects of handling improvised explosive devices and unexploded ordnance. It also addresses issues of public safety and protecting civilians.

"Support for the authorities to provide public safety is a primary aim of the OSCE Centre in Bishkek. This training course in bomb disposal is designed to improve the professional skills of the law enforcement authorities to respond in a timely and appropriate manner to bomb alerts and to prevent damage to citizens and property,” said Ambassador Andrew Tesoriere, the Head of the OSCE Centre.

Sovet Arbaev, Commander of the Kyrgyz Internal Troops, added: "The readiness to address the possible use of explosive devices for terrorist purposes is vital for Kyrgyzstan's security, and we should therefore constantly sustain and improve our capacity in this field."

During the course the trainees will be provided with a handbook on dealing with explosive devices, published with the support of the OSCE Centre. The course will conclude with a certification examination.

The OSCE Centre in Bishkek is organizing the course as part of its programme on combating terrorism activities.