A four week seamanship training course, developed by EUCAP Nestor for the new Marine Police Investigation Unit (MPIU), kicked off this week.
The course is part of a tailor-made Basic Training program for the MPIU, specifically made to ensure that the MPIU officers receive the skills and knowledge to carry out their tasks.
The MPIU will be a core unit within the National Crime Service Division of the Police Force focused on law enforcement and the detection of illegal activities along the island shorelines.
The Unit will also assist the Seychelles Maritime Safety Administration in enforcing the law around the coastlines.
The Unit will work closely with other maritime agencies, notably the Seychelles Coast Guard, in tasks that involve searching for drowned persons and for persons in vehicles that have fallen into the sea, which appear to require a criminal investigation.
“We are very grateful to EUCAP Nestor for providing this training,” said Police Commissioner Ernest Quatre. “Getting the Unit up and running is a major priority for us.”
Eight MPIU officers are taking part in the course. Topics to be covered will include: navigation, boat handling, safety at sea, maintenance, as well as practical exercises on board boats.
EUCAP Nestor expert, José-Luis Segura, has been sent specifically to the Seychelles to develop and deliver the training for the MPIU.
“Following a request for support from the Seychelles, EUCAP Nestor has stepped up to the plate and is providing direct support in setting up the MPIU,” said Fredrik Wesslau, the acting Head of the EUCAP Nestor Seychelles Office.
“The MPIU is an important part of the Seychelles’ maritime security architecture,” said Wesslau.
EUCAP Nestor will also assist the Police with further training modules covering policing and legal aspects of marine law enforcement.