6 February 2013 - Assisting to build the skills of South Sudan National Police Service officers, UN Police today completed a month-long criminal investigation course for 25 force members in the Unity State capital Bentiu.

Participants, comprising 23 male and two female officers, were mainly from the Criminal Investigation Division.

The highly specialized training covered topics like criminal justice in South Sudan, crime scene management, evidence management and exhibit handling, handling arrests and dealing with witnesses and suspects. Other areas included interviews and interrogations, statement taking, report writing and custody management.

One participant, 2nd Lt. Kong William, said the training would enable him to prepare good reports and to collect good evidence during criminal investigations.

The training also covered non-technical subjects like human rights and the role of media in democracy.