OSCE Centre organizes bomb disposal training course for Interior Ministry troops

BISHKEK, 12 October, 2009 - 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.

More than 20 officers from various law enforcement bodies are taking part in the course, held at the Interior Ministry's Anti Terrorism Centre, which was recently renovated with OSCE Centre support.

The course covers topics including how to handle improvised explosive devices, unexploded ordnance, car bombs and suicide bombers. It also focuses on public safety and the protection of civilians.

"Timely and appropriate responses in dealing with bomb alerts are vital and can save innocent lives," said Ambassador Andrew Tesoriere, the Head of the OSCE Centre. "This training course will strengthen the professionalism of law-enforcement officers in handling such incidents. I hope this course will also convey a message of enhanced public safety."

Col. Abylmazhin Shadybekov, 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. Therefore, we should constantly sustain and improve our capacity in this field."

The course will conclude with a test and those who pass will receive a certificate.

The OSCE Centre in Bishkek is organizing the course as part of its work to help Kyrgyzstan combat terrorism.