On 11 September 2015, UNMASÂ completed a four week comprehensive training package in Explosive Ordnance Reconnaissance (EOR), IED Safety Response and Medical First Aid for 26 members of a specialized rapid response intervention unit of the Malian Gendarmerie (PIGN), of which 19 were successfully certified.
Such training is being delivered further to a clear requirement and request from national authorities with the aim of establishing an operationally independent national capacity in Mali that will be able, inter alia, to safely respond to explosive incidents, as well as conduct military search and detection operations.
This training follows previously delivered courses in Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) for 72 personnel from the Malian Defence and Security Forces (MDSF). Training and planning efforts are on-going in a concerted manner to be extended to also include Counter-IED and post-blast investigation training and equipment.
Photos: UNMAS/Marc Vaillant