UNODC concludes landmark Training for Investigation Officers of Balochistan Levies Force 

4th July 2022, Quetta: UNODC Criminal Justice and Legal Reforms Programme in collaboration with Balochistan Levies Force conducted the first-of-its-kind 5 days capacity building training on, “Basic Investigation Skills” for Investigation Officers of Balochistan Levies Force.

This landmark initiative aims to bring professional effectiveness and efficiency in delivery of services by building on core competencies such as crime scene management, learning of advanced laws, investigation skills, handling of gender-based violence cases, community policing, and forensics evidence gathering. The training was held from June 27 to July 1, at the Levies Headquarters in Quetta comprising of 34 Investigation Officers as participants, who actively engaged in group discussions and exercises. 

The training was held against the backdrop of a needs assessment carried out by UNODC. It was followed by the development of a course on basic investigation to be imparted over 1 week. The course was designed whilst addressing the challenges of the criminal justice institutions including limited capacities, human resources and the lack of infrastructure.

The training was broken down into modules to enhance understanding of the best practices and application of the skills for effective and efficient investigation, interrogation, and interviewing of victims, witnesses, and suspects.

The basics of forensic science and the modern development in the field were also discussed especially digital evidence development of certain skills in the handling, preservation, and custody of forensic evidence. The training programme also focused on learning successful management of stresses in life and at the workplace, clear understanding of professionalism, and a positive behavioral change in the delivery of services.

Mr. Qadir Bakhsh Pirkani, Director General Balochistan Levies Force thanked UNODC for their efforts in organizing this important training. He also stated, “We need to work even harder as a result of these investigation training sessions and practice the skills learned here”.

The trainees also expressed the need to continue specialised training on investigation for the Levies in order to equip them with relevant knowledge and skills. After the training, the participants felt more confident in filing and investigation of cases.

After the successful completion of Basic Investigation Skills Training, UNODC Criminal Justice and Legal Reforms Programme plans to organize and conduct a comprehensive training on Advance Investigation Skills.

The technical and material support to Balochistan Levies Force is provided under the Rule of Law Project funded by EUD.