Fatshimetrie, August 28, 2024 edition: A major step has been taken in strengthening the skills of Judicial Police officers in the Democratic Republic of Congo. Indeed, the International Organization for Migration (IOM) in collaboration with the Congolese National Police (PNC) announced the conclusion of the training of 445 Judicial Police Officers (JPOs) in different provinces of the country.
This initiative, financially supported by the United States government through the Bureau of International Narcotics and Law Enforcement Affairs (INL) of the US Department of State, is of capital importance in the Congolese security landscape. Officers from the provinces of North Kivu, South Kivu, Haut-Katanga and Kasai-Central underwent intensive training on the exercise and attributions of judicial police officers and agents near the common law courts.
More than just an introduction to the workings of the Judicial Police, this training addressed crucial topics such as child rights and protection, the complaint filing process, the establishment of community policing, police ethics and professional conduct, gender-based violence and general intelligence. These areas of learning aim to strengthen the skills of OPJs, enabling them to respond more effectively to the challenges encountered in the exercise of their profession.
The swearing-in ceremony, which took place in the presence of public prosecutors from the high courts of Bukavu, Goma, Mbuji-Mayi and Lubumbashi, marked the end of an important stage in the training of these 445 officers. This demonstration of commitment to justice and the security of the Congolese population reflects a common desire for professionalization and excellence within the PNC.
It should also be noted that this training session is part of the 6th phase of the “community policing” project, aimed at promoting a proximity approach between the police and the population. This initiative aims to strengthen citizens’ trust in law enforcement and ensure equitable access to justice for all Congolese.
In summary, the training of these 445 Judicial Police Officers in the DRC marks a further step towards consolidating the foundations of a solid and equitable security and justice system. This commendable initiative, the result of a fruitful partnership between IOM, the PNC and the US government, paves the way for a safer and fairer future for the Congolese people.