October 24, 2012, Sweetcrude/African Press Organization (APO), MOGADISHU, Somalia — The Somali Police Force in partnership with AMISOM, UNDP and UNPOS are embarking on a vetting exercise of 600 ex-police officers.
The exercise aims to increase the number of operational police officers in the Somali
Police Force to enable them to improve heir operational effectiveness to maintain law and order in Somalia.
AMISOM Police Commissioner, Dr. Charles Makono said: “Bringing in ex-police officers shortens the training period needed before deployment as it take advantage of the past policing experience of te officers. However, care has to be taken to ensure that the elements are brought in to the Somali Police Force, hence the need for vetting. AMISOM is committed to working with the Somali Police Force to help keep communities across Somalia safe and secure”.
The vetting teams will focus in particular on whether ex-police officers were involved
in any human rights abuses or criminal offences during their absence from service in the Somali Police Force.
Rebuilding the Somali Police Forces will add value to stability and bring security to the country. This exercise comes at a crucial time when the issue of national security is among the top priorities of the new Government and its partners. The vetting process will allow the selection of the best men and women for a stronger police force.