The Tribune

THE Royal Bahamas Police Force received $430,000 worth of equipment and gear from the US Embassy yesterday.

Stephanie Bowers, US chargé d’affairs, said yesterday’s handover ceremony was very meaningful to her, adding that she was pleased to be handing over 293 protective vests and plates for RBPF officers, training equipment and gear for the RBPF Police College, Forensic Science Department, and maintenance equipment for the boats used by the Marine Support Services Unit.

Ms Bowers said: “Today we provided the college (with) important training gear to support the college’s ongoing efforts to improve and educate the police.

“These donations are on two of my priority areas, training and protection. In my role at the embassy there is nothing more important to me than the safety and security of my team.

“. . .When I hear about a joint US-Bahamian operation, at the forefront of my mind is not only the security of US personnel but also of that our close and trusted Bahamian partner.”

Ms Bowers said the US mission to the Bahamas looks forward to continuing cooperation to substantially reduce illicit trafficking and increase public safety and security, as well as strengthen the important relationship between the two countries.

During his remarks, Marvin Dames, minister of national security, said the equipment will help protect law enforcement officers and assist in training.

Mr Dames said: “When we take into account what we are about to receive today, I can’t help but to reflect on the relationship between the United States of America and that of The Bahamas. I am pleased to say since, (we gained independence), the relationship between the two countries continues to grow from strength to strength and not only in law enforcement but all areas of governance.”