Eighteen officers have learned new techniques in crime scene investigation and enhanced their knowledge of crime management on land and on vessels at sea.

This came about through a training workshop conducted by Interpol.

The officers who received the training were from the Seychelles Coast Guard (SCG), Marine Police, CID (Criminal Investigation Department) and scientific support.

This training was part of CRIMLEA I project launched in 2011 and funded by the European Union to the tune of EURO 1.6 million, contributing to enhance the capabilities of our allies in the region by giving their different administrations ways to combat piracy at sea.

The government recognises the hard work and sacrifices that the police officers have to make in order to safeguard our country and nation and to ensure that peace, security and stability reign in our country.

This is the gist of the Police Day message by Home Affairs Minister Charles Bastienne to all police officers on Police Day, celebrated yesterday.

The minister’s message reads:

“Today Seychelles joins the rest of the world to observe the International Day of Peace, a significant day also for the Police Force in the Seychelles.

“For some years now, the local force has adopted September 21 as Police Day in Seychelles.

“It’s fitting to commemorate both the International Day of Peace and Police Day on the same day, as one of the main mandates of this law enforcement agency is to ensure peace at all times in our beloved Seychelles.

“The government and myself recognise the hard work and sacrifices that the police officers have to make in order to safeguard our country and nation and to ensure that peace, security and stability reign in our country.

“Such was obvious in the recent events hosted in our country such as the political campaigns and elections, where these men and women in uniform worked tirelessly, braving long hours and difficult and intimidating situations.

“In addition, a lot have been achieved in recent years to bring down crime level and to render our communities safer.