OSCE trains Moldovan armed forces in secure handling and storage of small arms and light weapons

CHISINAU, 25 September 2014 – Sixteen officers of the Moldovan armed forces today successfully completed an OSCE-supported training course on the physical security and stockpile management of small arms, light weapons and conventional ammunition.

The training took place in Chisinau and Bulboaca from 10 to 25 September 2014 and was conducted by Austrian, Swedish, Canadian and German specialists.

“Risk mitigation in ammunition depots is a major concern for the OSCE, as the safety of people living nearby is at stake. This training provides ammunition specialists a better understanding of the risks of storing ammunition and the measures that can be taken to reduce these risks as much as possible”, said Ambassador Michael Scanlan, Head of the OSCE Mission to Moldova. “In addition, controlled depots help lower the risk of ammunition proliferation, which contributes to security and stability in the region writ large.”

Officers from the Moldovan armed forces, including specialists from the Ministries of Interior and  Justice, and the Intelligence and Security Services of the Republic of Moldova took part in the course. The participants learned how to safely and securely handle and store small arms and light weapons in accordance with OSCE and international best practices.

The training is part of a 3-year project to train Moldovan ammunition specialists. It is a follow up on the first phase which took place from 5 to 20 March 2014. The best trainees will be selected to become the future trainers of Moldovan ammunition specialists.