BUGESERA - Close to 50 police officers, Monday, officially started a three-month training course in criminal investigation in Bugesera District.

The course will see officers acquire skills in rigorous investigative techniques and criminal law.

It will also cover economic crimes, crime scene management, interview techniques, statement drafting and human rights lessons.

The course organised by the Rwanda National Police and the Belgian Technical Cooperation (BTC), is intended to develop general understanding of the science of inquiry and provide insights into techniques, skills and limitation of modern criminal investigations.

While officially opening the training, the Inspector General of Police (IGP), Emmanuel Gasana, said that the training would enhance knowledge on the existing and future challenges in criminal investigations.

Gasana noted that technological advancement requires law enforcers to be IT literate with a high level of regional and international cooperation to effectively combat emerging crimes.

"Investigating crimes of terrorism and other trans-national organised crimes require a high level of technical know-how and we will continue to train police officers in order to be ahead of criminals,” said Gasana.

The police chief emphasized the need to strengthen the force’s partnership with the community as well as international cooperation to effectively contain trans-border crimes.

"This can only be achieved through building trust and confidence and having a professional police force,” Gasana added.

He urged the trainees to exercise discipline, enhance planning, and always be mindful of the fact that good customer service is a prerequisite in the Rwandan National Police.

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