Members of the Royal Solomon Islands Police Force (RSIPF) have participated in forensic and crime scene training with the AFP ahead of major events in the Pacific nation.
The programs, delivered through the RSIPF & AFP Policing Partnership Program (RAPPP), enabled seven officers from around Solomon Islands to complete a Forensic Qualifying Course and a Phase 1 Drug Investigation Course, while 10 officers took an Advanced Forensic Crime Scene Investigation Course.
Topics covered included forensic principles, examination processes, crime scene recording, evidence collection and preservation, fingerprinting, digital photography, exhibit management, drug seizure, and preliminary drug testing.
In one course, attendees watched a live burn to see the progression and speed of a room fire.
RSIPF Assistant Commissioner Crime and Intelligence Patricia Leta said the training would help officers perform forensic examinations, including death scenes, illegal drug imports and fires.
Assistant Commissioner Leta said the training marked another milestone in the careers of the police officers and thanked the RAPPP for funding the courses.
"It is always encouraging to see our counterparts supporting us whenever a gap is identified in the RSIPF that requires the upskilling of our officers," Assistant Commissioner Leta said.
"We are also pleased this training was delivered ahead of the Pacific Games in November, to ensure our officers are best prepared to protect the local community and visitors to the Solomon Islands."
AFP Superintendent Adam McCormack said such courses ensured police forces in smaller nations, such as the Solomon Islands, had access to new technologies and scientific methods to strengthen their investigative techniques.
"The AFP is proud to provide ongoing support through the RAPPP to enhance police operations and capability in Solomon Islands," Supt McCormack said.
