THE Davao City Government allocated a P3-million budget for the training of 40 selected police officers from different stations under the Davao City Police Office (DCPO) that aims to further strengthen their capacity in combating terrorism.
The police officers, who will undergo a Special Weapons and Tactics (Swat) advance course, kicked off their 15-day training Thursday morning, June 29, at the DCPO ground.
DCPO spokesperson Ma. Teresita Gaspan said that the cops will be grouped into five clusters and will be deployed throughout the city.
The budget covers the whole duration of the training where the cops will also be equipped with full Swat uniforms, SIG Sauer M4 Rifle, bullet vest including the procurement of Swat van.
Gaspan said the undertaking is in line with the implementation of Oplan Iron City where part of its program is the reorganization, retraining and equipage of expanded Davao Swat platoon to cover identified sectors of Davao City.
After their training, they will serve as a tactical support component, who have the skills in dealing threats like baggage suspected to contain bombs.
"This is to ensure public safety and security in forefront fight against the increasing demands of terrorism, organized criminals and other lawless elements who will attempt to destroy our peace in the City," Gaspan said.
With this, there will be immediate response from the government in case of any eventuality and security challenge posed by lawless armed groups through the Enhance Police Integrated Patrol System. (JCR)