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GMCP UPDATE OCT 18
Pacific Ocean

VBSS training delivered for boarding teams from Indonesia and Vietnam

UNODC GMCP delivered a VBSS course for boarding teams from Indonesia and Vietnam with Training of Trainers (TOT) Trainers' assistance
From 3 to 14 October, UNODC GMCP successfully organised Visit, Board, Search and Seizure (VBSS) training for boarding teams from Indonesia BAKAMLA and Vietnam Coast Guard at the maritime training facility in Batam. The specialised training was delivered with combined lectures and practical boarding exercises on simulated situations at sea. The participants from the previous VBSS Instructors' Course also got to practice their training skills by supporting UNODC GMCP experts in delivering the VBSS training to boarding teams. As a result of the training, all 16 participants have gained updated knowledge and skills in strengthening their boarding operation procedures both in daytime and during night shifts.
Gulf of Aden and the Red Sea

Opening ceremony of the maritime training centre in Mogadishu

Opening ceremony of the maritime training centre in Mogadishu as part of UNODC GMCP's support to the MMPU
With the support of US INL, UNODC GMCP facilitated the opening ceremony of the maritime training centre for the Mogadishu Maritime Police Unit (MMPU), which will enhance the Maritime Law Enforcement (MLE) agency's capacity to protect Somali waters from illegal activities at sea. The training centre will enable additional training at this dedicated venue and facilitate more peer-to-peer instruction. The event was attended by UNODC-trained officers, US INL representatives, the police commander of the MMPU, and UNODC GMCP in Somalia.
Gulf of Aden and the Red Sea

Meeting with the Ministry of Fisheries in Somalia

UNODC GMCP representatives in Somalia met with the Minister and delegates from the Ministry of Fisheries to discuss areas of collaboration
UNODC GMCP had the pleasure of meeting with Hon. Minister Ahmed Hassan Adan and delegates from the Somali Ministry of Fisheries to discuss areas of collaboration to enhance the response tocrimes in the fisheries sector. During the meeting, UNODC GMCP presented the achievements reached and the planned activities to support the enhancement of the monitoring and enforcement capability in Somalia.
Gulf of Aden and the Red Sea

Meeting with commander of SLCG in Berbera

UNODC GMCP facilitated multiple variations of VBSS trainings for MLE agencies in Southeast Asia
UNODC GMCP engineering and communications mentors met with the Commander of the Somaliland Coast Guard (SLCG) to discuss the training activities to support the Berbera base during their mentoring period. The base will be assisted by local engineering experts to facilitate additional training for the officers in order to keep all the equipment at the port operational and to allow the officers to continually improve their technical skills.
Gulf of Aden and the Red Sea

Mentoring delivered in Bossaso

UNODC GMCP supports the Somaliland Coast Guard (SLCG) through the delivery of engineering mentorship and training 
UNODC GMCP’s engineering mentor is back on the ground to provide training and mentoring to Bossaso Port alongside local engineering experts in order to strengthen boat repair abilities. This week, repairs were made to malfunctioning equipment at the port, including damaged engines, fuel tanks, and gearboxes which are being replaced to enhance the Somaliland Coast Guard’s capacity to conduct successful patrols and their overall effectiveness. In addition, mentors have started preliminary project studies for the modification of a port-based vessel to operate with outboard engines.
Gulf of Aden and the Red Sea

Communication training for SLCG

UNODC GMCP facilitated a communications training for members of the SLCG in Berbera
During a recent training session, UNODC GMCP communications mentor instructed Somaliland Coast Guard (SLCG) communications officers on how to configure and utilise ICOM VHF repeaters. The enhanced use of VHF communications will further assist the SLCG in Berbera to better prepare and launch operations at sea.
Gulf of Aden and the Red Sea

Engineering training for BPMPU officers

UNODC GMCP supports the BPMPU through the delivery of engineering training 
UNODC GMCP's national engineering mentor delivered a training to the Bosaso Port Maritime Police Unit (BPMPU) on the maintenance of the gearbox as well as the engine. The activity included instructions on assessment of engines, identification of the gear box components, and periodic maintenance.
Gulf of Aden and the Red Sea

Pre-deployment workshop for prison mentors in Nairobi

UNODC GMCP representatives met with Swedish Prison and Probation Service Officers ahead of their deployment to Somalia 
Swedish Prison and Probation Service Officers seconded to UNODC as Prison Mentors have officially began their contract. On 12 October 2022, the mentors had a pre-deployment workshop in Nairobi, together with the UNODC GMCP Somalia team, to discuss necessary plans, priorities and expected challenges. As prison mentors, they will support national counterparts in addressing various issues which are currently affecting the prison system in each of their duty stations.
Gulf of Aden and the Red Sea

Joint navigation training delivered in Aden

UNODC GMCP supports the YCG through the delivery of joint navigation training 
UNODC GMCP delivered a two-week training course on navigation for 18 officers and sailors who serve at two different units within Yemen Cost Guard (YCG) in Aden, the Floating Unit and the Oil Refinery Unit, respectively. During this training, the participants acquired new skills and knowledge on navigation, boat handling, and marine communication. More importantly, the training focused on enhancing the level of coordination and communication between those two units through various joint maritime security patrol scenarios conducted inside and outside Aden Bay as well as around Aden seaport.
Gulf of Aden and the Red Sea

Training conducted at Al-Maalla Multipurpose Terminal in Aden

UNODC GMCP conducted an Effective Ship/Port Interface” training at Al-Maalla Multipurpose Terminal in Aden
UNODC GMCP completed a training course for 33 port personnel from the Al-Maalla Multipurpose Terminal on “conducting effective ship/port interface.” This was the first session of its kind offered at this facility and was done over the course of three days. These included two days of classroom sessions and activities, culminating on the third day with the boarding of Motor Vessel Pestana, with the participation of the Yemen government security forces. The safety and operations team was joined on board by the Master/Ship Security Officer and Al-Maalla’s port Wharf Manager. The classroom session on the first day commenced with a video presentation on Port Security, showing security activities carried out at the port facility and highlighting the importance of collaboration among all departments. On the second day, the classroom session consisted of topics such as threats to maritime, ship/port interface, and documentation. The session ended with group work and forming a chain among the participants dubbed the “Ring of Cooperation,” which is a commitment from all staff members to support the facility’s security.
Gulf of Aden and the Red Sea

Improving the YCG training center and operations room 

UNODC GMCP completed the YCG's training center and operations room construction work and CCTV installation
As part of the implementation plan for the Yemen Coast Guard (YCG) Regeneration Strategy and funded by the UKFDCO and the US Department EXBS program, UNODC GMCP has successfully completed the first infrastructural project at YCG HQ premises. The construction work took place over the past few months and included establishing a designated training facility within the YCG headquarters building. As a result, now YCG is more equipped to host all UNODC GMCP planned training courses and is the hub for all the specialised training courses, which can invite members from all YCG sectors. The refurbishment construction work included not only all the related civil works, which also considered access for disabled users, but further the installation of high-end monitors and control technologies, ICT installations, training equipment, and office furniture. To enhance the level of security, UNODC GMCP tested and completed the installation of high-tech CCTV systems in multiple locations at the YCG HQ complex. The system included PTZ and Fixed cameras to ensure thorough surveillance is maintained by YCG officers. The system’s control and monitors are placed in the renovated operations room. In addition, the operations room’s renovation and installation of controls for Public Announcement, fire system, and other controls were all included in the completed project.
Gulf of Aden and the Red Sea

Training on vessel traffic services systems in Yemen

17 YCG communications operators and technicians received training on vessel traffic services (VTS) systems in Aden
From 2 to 14 October, UNODC GMCP conducted two training courses for 19 operators and technicians based at the YCG HQ operations room. During these training sessions, the participants were familiarised with modern communication devices and vessel tracking tools commonly used for Maritime Law Enforcement (MLE) applications. The training included various introductory sessions on vessel detecting systems, such as Marine Radars and the Automatic Identification System (AIS), as well as the sensors used for enhancing Maritime Domain Awareness (MDA) like weather stations, perimeter surveillance cameras, GMDSS, VHF, and HF marine radio devices. Those training courses are part of UNODC’s long-term plans to prepare YCG members for receiving and handling the future VTS equipment intended for Aden.
Gulf of Aden and the Red Sea

Practical training in YCG workshop

UNODC GMCP supports the YCG through practical training courses for engineers and technicians at the YCG central workshop
UNODC GMCP marine engineer conducted a practical training course for 14 Yemen Coast Guard (YCG) engineers and technicians from Yemen at the central workshop from 2 to 13 October. The course included repairing and maintaining the boat lift and the replacement of its slings provided by UNODC GMCP to ensure a safe boat lifting activity and a hazard-free work environment. Additionally, the course included sessions to enhance the participant’s skills in repairing and maintaining YCG patrol boats to increase the number of the operational fleet. The salvage of old outboard engines was of focus during this course. Consequently, a repair of two outboard engines using parts from other non-operational engines was achieved. The salvaged outboard engines were installed in the newly repaired hull resulting in a fully operational patrol boat joining the YCG patrol fleet. The correct usage of UNODC GMCP previously implemented SOPs and checklists for the maintenance process was applied during the course.
Gulf of Aden and the Red Sea

English courses for YCG officers in the Red Sea

UNODC GMCP is facilitating the ongoing delivery of English language lessons for officers of YCG Red Sea at Mokha center 
Funded by the UK FCDO, English language courses continue to be delivered by UNODC GMCP to 30 officers of YCG Red Sea at Mokha center. These courses have effectively contributed to the advancement of YCG officers’ communication capabilities in English. This is an essential skill to efficiently conduct patrol operations and communicate with international ship officers and other counterparts. The YCG officers who participated in this course showed a noticeable improvement in their English comprehension skills. UNODC GMCP strives to ensure the courses are delivered to all YCG officers in Aden and Mokha.
Mediterranean

VBSS training for Egypt Navy and Cyprus Marine Police

UNODC GMCP delivered a VBSS training for officers from the Egyptian Navy and Cyprus Marine Police at the CYCLOPS 
UNODC GMCP conducted a Visit, Board, Search and Seizure (VBSS) training for the Egyptian Navy and the Cyprus Marine Police. In addition to night boardings and learning the use of remotely operated underwater vehicles (ROV), the participants simulated med-evac scenario on the final training day. Co-trainers from the Egyptian Navy and Cyprus Marine Police assisted the UNODC GMCP expert in delivering the training at the “Cyprus Center for Land Open Seas and Port Security” (CYCLOPS) in Larnaca, Cyprus.
Latin America and the Caribbean

High-Level security conference (CONSLE) in Montego Bay

UNODC GMCP participated in the CARICOM Council for National Security and Law Enforcement (CONSLE) meeting in Montego Bay, Jamaica 
On 5 October 2022, UNODC GMCP and CARICOM IMPACS participated in the CARICOM Council for National Security and Law Enforcement (CONSLE) meeting in Montego Bay, Jamaica. UNODC GMCP’s participation was in support of the technical work it is currently delivering with CARICOM IMPACS for the development of a Caribbean Maritime Security Strategy (CMSS). Additionally, UNODC GMCP delivered a technical presentation on the Agreement concerning Co-operation in Suppressing Illicit Maritime and Air Trafficking in Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances in the Caribbean area aimed at promoting ratification of the treaty among CARICOM countries.
Latin America and the Caribbean

Communications exercise facilitated in the Caribbean

UNODC GMCP facilitated a Communication Exercise between the Dominican Navy, Jamaica Defence Force and the Royal Bahamas Defence Force 
On 6 October 2022, under the UNODC GMCP-supported Maritime Operations Centre to Maritime Operations Centre initiative (MOC to MOC), the Jamaica Defence Force led a communication exercise to foster the use of available platforms to identify vessels with unusual behavior and verify the functionality of the communication channels among the institutions and their adaptability in real-life events. Additionally, the exercise was aimed at supporting the Maritime Operation Centers to identify the challenges and strengths in their communication means. These joint efforts will be further discussed in the upcoming meeting in Nassau, the Bahamas in November.
Latin America and the Caribbean

Videoconferencia: Campaña Naval Orión X

Representantes de UNODC GMCP participaron en una videoconferencia sobre la Campaña Naval Orión X 
El 13 de octubre, UNODC GMCP participó en la Campaña Naval Orión X. El Programa participa desde el aspecto jurídico, realizando capacitaciones a los fiscales y asesores jurídicos operacionales de los diferentes países participantes, con el fin de promover las buenas prácticas procesales en las acciones contra el narcotráfico en el mar. A través de esta sesión virtual, UNODC GMCP abordó el tema del “Primer respondiente en las operaciones de interdicción marítima”. En la charla se trataron temas como: conservación de la escena del delito, responsabilidad del primer respondiente, entrega de pruebas a la fiscalía y policía judicial, documentos de respaldo, cómo diligenciar informes y términos que deben ser utilizados y finalmente se desarrolló el temas de ayudas a la presentación de pruebas como fotos, videos y croquis de las circunstancias de los hechos.
Atlantic Ocean

VBSS operations for TiP/SoM in West Africa

UNODC GMCP supports Maritime Law Enforcement (MLE) agencies in Ghana and Zone F states through the delivery of VBSS operations for TiP/SoM 
With the support of Canada, Denmark, and Italy, UNODC GMCP concluded the 4th series of VBSS operations for Trafficking in Persons (TiP) and Smuggling of Migrants (SoM) with the overall objective to develop the maritime interdiction and arrest capabilities of Maritime Law Enforcement (MLE) agencies, to strengthen their individual and collective responses to maritime crimes at sea. These sessions helped MLE agencies in Ghana and Zone F states to build well-trained VBSS teams who will be able to effectively conduct interdiction operations at sea and inland waters.
Atlantic Ocean

Hand over of VBSS training equipment to Ghana Navy

With the support from Canada, Denmark and Italy, UNODC GMCP handed over VBSS training equipment to Ghana Navy

UNODC GMCP handed over VBSS training equipment to Ghana Navy to support NAVTRAC become ECOWAS Zone F VBSS Centre of Excellence for secure and safe maritime domain. This activity is supported by the Governments of Canada, Denmark and Italy.

Atlantic Ocean

TTX to test the finalised HSOP in Gana

UNODC GMCP facilitated a TTX to test the finalised Harmonised Standard Operating Procedure (HSOP) in Gana

UNODC GMCP is conducting a tabletop exercise (TTX) in the sideline of Grand African NEMO GANO to test the finalised Harmonised Standard Operating Procedures (HSOP) in Ghana. This activity is supported by the EU through the SWAIMS Project. 

Indian Ocean West

Improving Port Security in Lüderitz, Namibia

Port security training conducted in Lüderitz, Namibia under the EU-funded Port Security and Navigation Safety of Navigation Programme

On 3 October 2022, UNODC GMCP started a two-week training on port law enforcement and prosecution, waterside security and emergency response preparedness in Lüderitz, Namibia. Officers working in law enforcement and port security are taking part in the training which covers both practical and theoretical courses, implemented as part of the EU-funded Programme on Port Security and Safety of Navigation, under the coordination by the Indian Ocean Commission.

Indian Ocean West

Regional advanced VBSS course with input from the RMIFC

UNODC GMCP held a regional advanced VBSS course in Seychelles for officers from Comoros, Djibouti, Kenya, Madagascar, and Mauritius 

Between 21 September and 4 October 2022, UNODC GMCP held a regional Advanced Visit, Board, Search, and Seizure (VBSS) course in Seychelles for officers from Comoros, Djibouti, Kenya, Madagascar, and Mauritius. The course included the simulated info-sharing component with a Regional Maritime Information Fusion Center (RMIFC), using simulated scenarios to drive the planning and execution of boarding exercises. One of the sessions was facilitated by the Combined Maritime Forces (CMF) as part of the CMF-led two-week event “Operation Southern Readiness”, launched in partnership with UNODC, the Seychelles Defense Forces and EU Naval Force (EUNAVFOR) to strengthen regional collaboration and capacity building in maritime security. Two national instructors, one from Mauritius and one from South Africa, co-facilitated the course sessions. This activity was financed by EU MASE.

Indian Ocean West

National instructor training delivered in Seychelles

UNODC GMCP conducted a national instructor training in Seychelles 

Between 5 and 11 October 2022, UNODC GMCP conducted a national instructor training in Mahé, Seychelles for seven instructors from Comoros, Kenya, Madagascar, Mauritius, Mozambique, Seychelles, and South Africa. The key objective of the training was to teach instructors across the different countries, in which UNODC GMCP conducts trainings, on the essential skills required as instructors. In the long-term, this will increase local training capacity, contributing to the sustainability of UNODC trainings. This event was funded by US-INL and supported by a seconded trainer from the South African Police Service.

Indian Ocean West

Security information reporting training at Shimo La Tewa Prison 

UNODC GMCP supports the Kenya Prisons Services through the delivery of Security Information Reporting Level 2 training at Shimo La Tewa Command 

From 10 to 14 October 2022, UNODC GMCP facilitated a Security Information Reporting (SIR) training at Shimo La Tewa Command. During the five-day intensive training, the officers covered the second level of SIR training, focused on the collection and use of information in prison settings for VEO management. The training is conducted under the Prevention of Violent Extremism project for Kenya Prisons, funded by the UK.

Indian Ocean East

Assessment of maritime border security challenges in Bangladesh

UNODC GMCP met with counterparts in Chattogram Divison as part of maritime border security challenges in Bangladesh 

UNODC GMCP has conducted several meetings with counterparts in Chattogram Division to map and assess the current capabilities, challenges, and equipment requirements for maritime and riverine law enforcement in Bangladesh, particularly along the Myanmar-Bangladesh border region. On 13 October 2022, the UNODC GMCP team met with the Bangladesh Coast Guard, the Department of Fisheries, and the Department of Narcotics Control and discussed the needs and opportunities to counter and prosecute maritime crimes and improve border security in the area. These activities are funded by US INL.

Indian Ocean East

Protecting critical maritime infrastructure in Maldives

UNODC GMCP is supporting Maldives in the protection of critical maritime infrastructure 

A series of multi-stakeholder meetings took place at the national level on building awareness on and responsiveness to the protection of submarine cables in the Maldives in late September 2022. The project encompassed the identification of relevant stakeholders in the public and private sector and discussions amongst them on the UNODC-developed framework and plan on the protection of submarine cables. This also highlighted good practices, legal regimes and information sharing applicable to the protection of submarine cables. Several government entities and telecom operators participated in these discussions. This project is funded by the UK.

Indian Ocean East

MDA training and mentoring sessions in Maldives

UNODC GMCP conducted training and mentoring sessions on Maritime Domain Awareness (MDA) for MLE agencies in Maldives  

MDA (Maritime Domain Awareness) training and mentoring sessions for law enforcement and stakeholder agencies were conducted in Maldives. The sessions covered the Djibouti Code of Conduct and the role of the stakeholders in strengthening MDA. Further, the sessions were delivered on specific areas to support Member States in preventing and responding to the violation of UN sanctions, and criminal activities at the sea. Officials from Maldives National Defense Force (MNDF), Coast Guard, Maldives Customs Service, Maldives Police Service, Prosecutor General’s Office, Ministry of Transport and Civil Aviation of the Maldives participated in these sessions. This project is funded by US INL.

Indian Ocean East

Agriculture trainings initiated in Sri Lanka

In partnership with FAO, UNODC GMCP is delivering agriculture trainings to prison officers and the inmates at Mahara and Pallansena prisons in Sri Lanka

To support the vocational training efforts of the Department of Prisons and strengthen awareness on the importance of nutritious food, mental and physical wellbeing in a prison environment, UNODC GMCP is delivering agriculture trainings to prison officers and the inmates at Mahara and Pallansena prisons, under the Project “Crops for Tomorrow: Improving the wellbeing of Sri Lanka Prisoners”. The programme has been conducted in collaboration with the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) and the Department of Agriculture in Sri Lanka. The first set of trainings were concluded on 4, 7, 11 and 13 October, equipping 23 prison officers and 100 inmates with theoretical knowledge and practical skills in the areas of organic fertilizer production and mushroom cultivation technology. The programme has been received with positive feedback from its participants as an initiative that strengthens sustainable and efficient agriculture practices and skills among the inmates. These activities are funded by US INL.

Indian Ocean East

Hand over of desktop computers for virtual courts in Sri Lanka

UNODC GMCP handed over desktop computers to the Sri Lanka Department of Prisons for virtual court hearings

UNODC GMCP handed over eight desktop computers to the Commissioner General of Prisons on 5 October 2022. The equipment is part of the planned support to assist the operationalization of virtual courts (upon establishment) at Prisons in Matara, Galle and Angunakolapelessa and the Headquarters in Colombo. These activities are funded by US INL.


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