Cebu hosts Interpol’s anti-terrorism course

CEBU, Philippines - Law enforcers from Indonesia, Malaysia and the Philippines and the world’s top experts in the field of explosives and chemicals have gathered in Cebu City recently for International Police’s Chemical Anti-Smuggling Enforcement (CHASE) course.

Ian Rotsey, Interpol coordinator ChemEx Terrorism Prevention Unit, said they have chosen Cebu City as the venue of their counter terrorism program in Southeast Asia because of the facilities and equipment the city has.

“We have access for the display from HazMat (Hazardous Materials) and the bomb squads. There’s a very good support here in the Philippines and Cebu is a great location for the training Cebu has all we need,” said Rotsey.

CHASE, he said, is a six-month course, first stage of which has been held in Cebu last Sunday and Monday.

Experts in chemical, biological, radiological, nuclear and explosives joined the course to share valuable information to the participants.

“We’ve brought a number of international experts. We’ve got some representatives from the Federal Bureau of Investigation; top explosive and chemical experts are here at the moment,” added Rotsey.

Experts from Canada, Australia, and the United States government and international organizations also took part in the course.

After the six-month course, Rotsey said Philippines should now be more capacitated in fighting against terrorism.

The course has taught law enforcement officers, customs and immigration officers how to handle chemicals that could possibly be used in terroristic activities.

“Customs officers need to know the materials that they are uncovering in vessels in vehicles are connected with terrorism.

The immigration officers need to understand the threat posed by the different chemicals and materials so that they can take action,” said Rotsey, adding that cooperation is vital in the fight against terrorism.

Yesterday, personnel of the Bureau of Fire Protection-7 held a simulation exercise showing the Malaysian and Indonesian participants the proper way in handling hazardous chemicals.

After the activity, BFP-7 received praises and a plaque of appreciation from the InterPol. — Bryner L. Diaz/NSA (FREEMAN)