Botswana: High Commissioner to the Republic of Nigeria, Philda Kereng paid a courtesy call to the Commissioner of Police, Dinah Marathe. The meeting happened at the Police Headquarters on March 15 where they discussed several issues of mutual interest.
Commissioner of Police Marathe congratulated Kereng for her appointment and expressed her delight in welcoming her. The commissioner said that police of Nigeria and Botswana can come together for the development and world peace.
According to Commissioner of Police Marathe, Botswana and Nigerian team up to contribute tp regional and global peace. They can do this through their membership to the various international organizations, such as:
- United Nations (UN)
- International Criminal Police Organisation (INTERPOL)
- the African Union Mechanism for Police Cooperation (AFRIPOL)
The commissioner acknowledged that the two police services have not signed any formal collaborative framework. However, they are both committed to the fight against transnational organised crime.
The officials can do this through INTERPOL tools and collective resources such as:
- The I-24/7 communication system
- Intelligence sharing capabilities
- Capacity building training
- African Union Mechanism for Police Cooperation (AFRIPOL)
The Commissioner of Police said BPS continue to invest in law enforcement technology and staff development. The Commissioner noted that the success of the Botswana Police Service relies on building strategic community partnerships at local and international levels.
Marathe noted that the collaboration has remained effective in crime management. Accordingly, Commissioner Dinah Marathe asserted that BPS could collaborate with the Nigerian Police Force.
The officials of the two forces could benefit from training in Police Leadership Development, Cyber Crime Investigation and Forensic Investigation. During the meeting, the newly appointed high commissioner delivered brief remarks at the event.
Philda Kereng commended the Botswana Police Service for their collaborative efforts. She also urged the Commissioner to establish partnerships with the Nigerian Police Force for the benefit of the people.
The Botswana Police Service should start by benchmarking and identifying areas where BPS can benefit. She noted that Botswana is exemplary in good governance and the rule of law.
The High Commissioner also appreciated the efforts that were made by the BPS in fighting Gender Based Violence (GBV). The official noted that the other countries must learn from the best practices of Botswana.