For Immediate Release
February 26, 2004

Iraqi Police Build Specialized Skills
Iraq Fact of the Day

Despite recent attacks on police and police facilities, Iraqi police officers are patrolling the streets and intensifying training in the specialized skills needed to deal with future threats. A special-reaction police unit in Babil, for example, recently graduated from a five-week program in weapons training, first aid, hostage rescue, and physical training. A strong, well-trained police force is critical as Iraqis take greater responsibility for maintaining security. The officers in this program will now train others throughout the country. Each one of these officers had at least one family member killed by Saddam Hussein's regime.

Source:  Coalition Provisional Authority, Baghdad