Afghan border police officers complete OSCE patrol leadership course in Tajikistan

DUSHANBE, 19 October 2016 – Nineteen Afghan border police officers graduated today from the OSCE-supported patrolling and leadership course, which was held from 22 September to 19 October 2016 at the Gissar Training Centre, Tajikistan.

The participants, ranked from lieutenant to captain, enhanced their knowledge in map reading, pathfinder and in providing first aid in the field. Among the topics covered were conducting analysis and observation missions using topographical maps, satellite imagery and other tools; carrying out field exercises on alpine and river crossing; topography; land navigation; and tactical movement by GPS and azimuth.

Separate lessons on tactical patrolling and surveillance were delivered by a trainer from the Russian Border Service and lessons on provision of first medical aid were conducted by experts from the US Embassy in Tajikistan. Gender mainstreaming, human rights and demining awareness lessons were delivered by representatives of the OSCE Office in Tajikistan. Two Tajik border troops officers, who successfully completed the patrolling and leadership course in the past, supported the trainers in delivering the lessons. Each student received uniform clothing and the necessary patrolling equipment.

“The improvement of the capacity building of Afghan border police officers plays a significant role in strengthening security at the border between the two countries and the OSCE continues to support such efforts through this project,” said Fejzo Numanaj, Head of the Politico-Military Department at the OSCE Office in Tajikistan.

This was the tenth consecutive course held under the third phase of the patrol programming and leadership project. This project aims at enhancing the capacities of Tajik and Afghan border staff in detection and interdiction of illegal cross-border movements.