From 17 to 21 March 2025, UNICRI conducted a second advanced training course for operative officers on intelligence-led operations aimed at countering radiological and nuclear (RN) trafficking. The training was held in Bratislava, Slovakia and was hosted by the Slovak Police Department for Detection of Hazardous Substances and Environmental Crime. This specialized unit is dedicated to investigating and gathering intelligence on criminal activities involving hazardous chemical, biological, radiological and nuclear (CBRN) materials and environmental crime.
The five-day training session was organized within the framework of Phase II of the CONTACT - Black Sea project. Participants from the Republic of Moldova and Ukraine had the opportunity to test and acquire new skills on conducting special operations, with a focus on intercepting RN-material trafficking.
The training agenda included a series of practical exercises based on real operational scenarios. These hands-on activities replicated real-life conditions, enabling participants to refine key behavioural techniques and strengthen decision-making skills at different stages of an operation. The programme also featured theoretical sessions providing essential knowledge to support participants in successfully applying their skills during practical exercises.
“Considering the current security situation, we were honoured to host the UNICRI training session as part of the CONTACT project. Its uniqueness lies in its focus on the often overlooked and rarely practiced initial countermeasures against the smuggling of radioactive and nuclear materials”, highlighted the representative of the Department for Detection of Hazardous Substances and Environmental Crime. “These early interventions are critical for the subsequent actions of law enforcement agencies. We recognize the project's vital role in strengthening capacities in the Black Sea Region and contributing to global CBRN security, and firmly believe that it was highly beneficial for all participants.”
Preventing RN materials from falling into the wrong hands remains a top international priority. The war in Ukraine - and the resulting loss of regulatory control over thousands of radioactive sources - underscore the need to strengthen security and law enforcement agencies’ efforts against smuggling activities. UNICRI remains committed to supporting its Black Sea region partners to address this critical challenge through capacity-building activities.
UNICRI started CONTAC - Black Sea Phase I in June 2020, with Phase II beginning in September 2022. The project aims to engage with national institutions to ensure the sustainability of counter-RN trafficking training. By improving the capabilities of state security and law enforcement officials through additional advanced training sessions, CONTACT - Black Sea reinforces and consolidates participants’ expertise and skills. The project is jointly funded by the United Kingdom Department for Energy Security & Net Zero and the Norwegian Radiation and Nuclear Safety Authority.
Further information about the CONTACT project is available here.