Skopje, 30 September 2024 (MIA) – Regional K9 Training and Certification Centre was opened Monday in Skopje as part of the Interior Ministry, supported by the OSCE Mission to Skopje. 

It was called a critical step in combating the illicit trafficking of firearms in the region, said the OSCE Mission to Skopje in a press release. 

Addressing the opening, Interior Minister Panche Toshkovski said the regional center was of key importance for the country from both a strategic and operational point of view in the Interior Ministry.

According to him, cooperation with OSCE is crucial to enhance the Ministry’s professional capacities. 

“I hope the funds provided by OSCE will be used effectively to strengthen the capacity and professionalism of all police officers at the Interior Ministry,” said Toshkovski. 

Susan Penksa, Deputy Head of the OSCE Mission to Skopje, in her speech underlined the joint commitment to tackling illegal trade of small arms and light weapons. 

“The OSCE Mission to Skopje with the SALW project demonstrates our strong commitment to strengthening the operational capacities of the K9 unit for detection of weapons,” said Penksa. 

The Centre will act as a hub for continuous training and regional cooperation. It includes the construction of new K9 facilities and the improvement of working conditions in existing facilities. The mobility of K9 teams has also been enhanced with the donation of 14 specialized vehicles and three trailers, allowing for quicker, more efficient police responses across the region.

Photo: MIA