The Ministry of Interior are conducting a five-day anti-drug trafficking training course with their French counterparts. The extensive workshop aims to improve bilateral cooperation while strengthening the capacity of Cambodian National Police officers.

Mak Chito, deputy National Police chief in charge of the Anti-Drug Department, said the refresher course underscores the close cooperation between Cambodia and France, which have long, historical ties between their respective police forces.

The course will run from October 2 to 6 and features many key lessons. The 20 trainees will gain specialised knowledge drug identification, the global drug flow, as well as information about structures for combating drug trafficking in France. They will also learn specific techniques for gathering evidence before an arrest, through careful investigation and valid legal procedures.

Chito explained that the lessons for the refresher course are all crucial as part of the Kingdom’s planned response to the current climate of drug crime. For this reason, he urged the attendees to work hard and pay close attention to their instructors.

“Skills training is very important to the National Police, so all trainees must make an effort to listen closely and pay attention. They should ask questions, cite their own experiences and raise any issues that have not been resolved. The trainers have the skills to correct any shortcomings we may have,” he said.

According to the ministry, Nathalie Carlier, Security attache of the French interior ministry’s Department of International Security Cooperation, said the course is being taught by professional and experienced instructors who will provide knowledge which will allow the attendees to develop effectively.

“I call on all of the trainees who attend the course to pay attention. They should study hard, exchange ideas and ask questions when they do not understand. By doing so, they will gain real skills which can be put into practice,” she was cited as saying.

LICADHO deputy director Am Sam Ath said improved cooperation between nations – like that between the Cambodian and French interior ministries – is an excellent way of preventing and combating drug trafficking.

“The drug problem requires more effective law enforcement. Key to this is better cooperation with stakeholders, both regionally and internationally. Eradicating corruption and pursuing strict legal action against perpetrators are essential, as are practical training courses,” he said.