The AU peacekeeping mission in Somalia (AMISOM) forces have completed a 10-day training course for the South West State Police on the prevention and detection of Improvised explosive devices (IEDs). The training was held at the state capital, Baidoa and was aimed at stepping up efforts to counter widespread use of explosives which have become al Shabaab’s preferred weapon in the recent weeks.
In a statement issued by after the completion, AMISOM Inspector of Police, Sahr Emmanuel Kobai-Aruna said, “This is part of AMISOM’s mandate to capacitate Somali Police Force, and we taught them some components of IED/ Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD); the types EOD/IED and other management course modules.”
The 15 police officers were further taught first aid at the crime scene and casualty awareness assessment as well as the general knowledge that will aid in the reduction of deaths from preventable IED explosions.
The AU mission has played a crucial role in establishing the South West State Police Force, by training 600 police officers, who have played a major role in improving security in the region.
