EUCAP Somalia successfully conducts INTERPOL-led Maritime Crime Scene Investigation Trainings and Exercise

From 24 to 29 January, through its Field Office in Puntland, EUCAP Somalia successfully conducted an INTERPOL-led Maritime Crime Scene Investigation Trainings and Exercise. Utilizing the integrated approach under the EU-funded Red Sea Maritime Security Project, the training strengthened the operational capacity of 22 law enforcement officers (including four women), enhancing their effectiveness as first responders at maritime crime scenes. 

The participants, representing various law enforcement agencies, worked closely to improve coordination, ensure accurate documentation, and apply best practices in the identification, collection, handling, and preservation of maritime crime scene evidence.  A forensic expert from the Puntland Bureau of Forensic Science provided technical expertise on the national legal framework for forensic laboratories and detailed their operational capabilities in Puntland. The training concluded with a practical exercise at the Bossaso Seaport, enabling participants to apply their newly acquired knowledge in a simulated real-life maritime crime scenario. 

The exercise further contributed to stronger inter-agency collaboration and more effective cooperation for future joint investigations, significantly enhancing the operational readiness of Puntland law enforcement agencies and institutions. It also further strengthened INTERPOL–EUCAP Somalia partnership cooperation, contributing to teaching more coordinated, and effective responses to maritime crimes in the region.