OSCE Mission to Skopje organizes Police Open Day in Demir Hisar

SKOPJE, 19 September 2008 - Promoting community policing and increasing co-operation between the police and the population is the aim of a Police Open Day to be held in Demir Hisar tomorrow.

The OSCE-organized event, targeting children and young people, will include activities allowing children and their parents to learn about the role and duties of police officers and attend presentation on tactical exercises and skills.

"The Open Day is a good opportunity for the citizens to learn about the work of the police and see how the police are moving towards close co-operation and partnership with the people they serve," said Raymond Hirons, Acting Head of the OSCE Mission to Skopje's Police Development Department.

The OSCE Mission is organizing the Open Day in co-operation with the Interior Ministry and with support from the Demir Hisar Municipality.

Demir Hisar Mayor Ljupco Najdovski said that co-operation between police and citizens in the municipality was not yet satisfactory, adding, however, that he had high hopes.

"Through activities where police and children have active roles the communication will be promoted from any early age, and the youngsters will be encouraged to seek help and guidance from the police whenever needed," he said.