The United Nations Interregional Crime and Justice Research Institute (UNICRI) held a capacity-building workshop from 1 to 3 February 2023 in Chisinau, Moldova, to improve the ability of local law enforcement officials to handle bomb alert cases.
The training provided a comprehensive overview of theoretical and practical methodologies adopted by other countries to assess risk, establish a reliable alert system, and streamline standard operating procedures.
The in-person training was prompted by the increasing number of emergencies faced by the country and tailored for Moldovan officials working in crisis and emergency management. The objective was to make Moldovan authorities aware of different options and procedures established by selected European Union Member States, highlighting lessons learned and anticipating possible trends.
Twenty-five experts from various agencies participated in the training, including the General Inspectorate of Police, Operational Management Inspectorate, General Inspectorate of Border Police, Information and Security Service of the Republic of Moldova, and the General Prosecutor's Office.
The chemical, biological, radiological and nuclear (CBRN) and Explosive Unit of EUROPOL supported UNICRI by identifying delegates and national experts to participate in the capacity-building activities and sharing their national practices with Moldovan colleagues. UNICRI extends its gratitude to Spain, Estonia, and Slovakia for sending national practitioners and experts to contribute to this important initiative.
“We are pleased to assist the government of Moldova to prevent and combat crime, as well as promote justice through research, training, and technical assistance. We hope to foster international collaboration and knowledge sharing in crisis and emergency management”, said Mr. Leif Villadsen, Deputy Director of UNICRI.
Ms. Alina Rogojină, Chief officer of the External Assistance Coordination and Project Management Directorate in the Ministry of Internal Affairs stressed the importance of strengthening bilateral cooperation through specialized training projects and programs dedicated to enhance the safety of the population and improve capacities to prevent and combat organized crime.
Through mission visits to Chisinau in June and September 2022, UNICRI identified key areas of focus for Moldovan law enforcement agencies, including human trafficking, drug trafficking, arms trafficking, cybercrimes, and enhancing community policing strategies. The training to improve bomb alert handling capacity is part of UNICRI's comprehensive approach to address these specific priorities.
