Bukavu, 20 November 2009 – Today joint patrols were launched between MONUC police and the Congolese National Police (PNC), with the goal of reinforcing security in Bukavu. A total of 140 MONUC Bangladeshi Police, of which 8 are women, will work night and day in collaboration with the local PNC to reinforce the security of people and property in the city.
Lancey Camara, the MONUC police commander in South Kivu, indicated that these joint patrols have four essential aims: to fight insecurity in Bukavu; to maintain and re-establish public order when disrupted; to assure the security of MONUC staff and facilities; and to contribute to the training of the PNC.
This operation forms part of a vast programme of partnership between MONUC Police and the PNC.
As for logistical support, MONUC will assure the transportation for the patrols, with both police elements sharing the same transportation, for increased efficiency. The PNC also understand the local language and area, which also enhance efficiency.
A first conjoined patrol has been completed fr from the PNC headquarters in Bukavu to the border station of Ruzizi 1, which passed through the district of Bagira and MONUC’s offices in Bukavu.