Bukavu, 15 August 2014 – Some 140 elements of the Egyptian formed police unit (FPU) based in Bukavu, South Kivu, were presented with the United National medal by the Deputy Commissioner of the UN Police (UNPOL) component of MONUSCO.

Colonel Tabasky Diouf lauded the discipline, professionalism, bravery, courage, sacrifice and dedication that have shown during their one-year mission in South Kivu.

Since September 2013 they have, unilaterally or jointly with the Congolese National Police (PNC), carried out five missions to restore and maintain public order. They have provided training to build the capacities of the PNC. On its own or jointly with the PNC, the Egyptian formed police unit has organized 2052 patrols, provided 48 escorts for humanitarian convoys and personalities, and protected the security of camps for demobilized combatants.

This unit ends its tour of duty on 31 August 2014, only to be replaced by a fresh one that will continue carrying out the same tasks assigned to formed police units within MONUSCO.

The medal award ceremony provided the UNPOL Deputy Commissioner with an opportunity to meet the South Kivu PNC chief and the head of MONUSCO office to discuss the Mission’s support to the PNC.