Navy trains 40 policemen on marine operations in Lagos

The Nigerian Navy has commenced Basic Marine Operation Course (BMOC) for 40 policemen on countering maritime crimes, Rear Admiral Adeniyi Osinowo, Flag Officer Commanding Naval Training Command (NAVTRAC) has said.

Osinowo, who made the disclosure while addressing newsmen on Saturday in Lagos, said that the training would be held at the Naval Training Command, Apapa.

He said that the training would enable the policemen counter maritime crimes like pipeline vandalism, crude oil theft, among others.

``The course, which will last for 12 weeks, is targeted at developing the capacity for marine operations for personnel of the marine wing of the Nigerian Police.

``The personnel on training include 14 assistant superintendents of police, six inspectors, seven sergeants and 13 corporals,’’ he said.

Osinowo said that NAVTRAC was established to impact requisite skill and promote proficiency among personnel.

He said: ``Nigeria's maritime domain remains a strategic asset with enormous resources and potential.

``We are equally cognisant that this natural benefit has been persistently challenged by a myriad of threats that have impinged on Nigeria's economic wellbeing and national security.

``The command, through the Nigerian Navy Ship (NNS) Quorra (headed by Commodore Francis Isaac) runs professional operations courses for NN personnel and occasionally for other agencies.

``In this light, the NNS was tasked to conduct the BMOC for personnel of the Nigerian police.

``The course is aimed at ensuring that the marine police have a grasp of the necessary skills to operate effectively in their assigned areas and in compliance with existing statutes and jurisdiction.

``The course is also meant to enhance the capability of the Marine Police to conduct operations in support of the NN in the internal waters up to the harbour and port entrances of Nigeria.’’

The FOC said the course is tailored at improving the ability of the marine police in weapon handling and boat maintenance.

He added that the course would also introduce the participants to the laws of the sea, search and rescue, as well as other elements of chart work and rules of the road.