Sarajevo, 25 February 2010 – The Special Support Unit (SSU) of BiH’s State Investigation and Protection Agency (SIPA) are now undergoing the second stage of their advanced tactical training this week at the SSU’s Headquarters in Sarajevo. Expert trainer, Frank Witte, of the German Police force of Hesse, is delivering a seminar designed to “train the trainers”, this time focusing on the use of the telescopic baton.

The Unit are taught how to apply baton techniques to real-life situations whilst detaining and arresting a suspect. Witte urged the seminar’s participants to remain calm, focused and understanding of the situation when using the baton, and emphasised the need to be selective of when to use the weapon.

This week’s seminar is a continuation of an extensive training programme which forms part of a bilateral agreement between the EU Police Mission (EUPM) and the German state of Hesse. The first stage of the programme saw another expert trainer from Hesse training the Unit in advanced tactical skills, including hostage-taking scenarios, storming various different environments such as trains and buses, and aerial deployment from helicopters. During the second stage of the programme, Witte delivered an intensive seminar on advanced detention and disarming techniques.

The overall aim of the programme is to assist BiH in creating a sustainable, professional police force in line with best European and international standards.