US Prepares Team in Guatemala to Combat Drug Trafficking and Terrorism
By Dialogo March 03, 2009
This Monday, 49 Guatemalan officers completed a course in preparation for the fight against drug trafficking and terrorism. This course was given by the US Border Patrol Tactic Unit (BORTAC). This team integrates the first contingent of the Intervention Air Force Against Narcotics and Terrorism (FIAAT) from Guatemala. “This week started with a very important ceremony for national security, for the fight against drug trafficking. I want to recognize this value, that from now on you will apply your knowledge to the struggle against drug trafficking and terrorism,” Guatemalan President Álvaro Colom said Monday during a ceremony with the participants. The President, who closed the ceremony, stated that the significance of the preparation lies in the efforts to join the air, sea, and ground forces in the struggle against organized crime, which poses a threat to the Guatemalan people. “I want to tell you that you are not alone, because we are working in several sectors, in several areas, so the operations you will carry out will be purposeful and consistent,” the President said to the graduates. Meanwhile, the drug trafficking prosecutor, Leonel Ruiz, told AFP that Guatemala is in the midst of a historical moment, defined by the eagerness and goodwill for the fight against the scourge of drug trafficking. “It is clear that Guatemalan authorities support the struggle against drug trafficking. The coordination will be jointly carried out, just as it has been done until today; the only change is that now there is an elite unit to control cargo passing through the country,” said Ruiz. The unit is composed of agents belonging to the Service of Analysis and Information Against Drug Trafficking (SAIA) of the National Civil Police (PNC) of Guatemala, as well as of members of the Guatemalan Air Force (FAG), and the Special Navy Force (FEN), both of which are part of the army.
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