Afghan and Tajik border officials undergo OSCE-supported training in identifying chemicals used in illicit manufacture of drugs

 

 

Practical exercise held as part of the OSCE, UNODC training in identifying chemicals used in illicit manufacture of drugs. Dushanbe, 29 May 2013. (OSCE BMSC/Nargis Khidirova)

DUSHANBE, 29 May 2013 - A training course for border officials from Afghanistan and Tajikistan on identification of chemicals used in illicit manufacture of drugs, and investigation of their sources started at the OSCE Border Management Staff College in Dushanbe today.

These chemicals known as drugs precursors also have legitimate use, such as the synthesis of plastics, pharmaceuticals, cosmetics, perfumes, detergents or aromas.

Nineteen senior and mid-level border officials participate in the course co-organised with the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime Country Office for Afghanistan. It focuses on illegal trade of precursors in the region, roles of various law enforcement agencies in the control of precursors, methods of converting illegal chemicals and risk assessment techniques.

“Effective control of the trade in these chemicals and investigation from the place of seizure back to the diversion point is one of the most effective ways to fight drug production,” said Julia Klaus, Director of the OSCE Border Management Staff College. “This seminar aims to enhance participants’ knowledge on chemical precursor identification and modern investigation techniques. Theory sessions and practical exercises on conducting a rapid precursor screening and analysis will equip the border officials with the important skills necessary in their everyday work.”