A new class of the Basic Police and Coast Guard Training Program (BOPK) successfully completed the four-week ‘Stronger Together’ introduction period yesterday, the 7th of September. With an official entry and cap ceremony at Marine Base Parera in Curaçao, this intensive first phase came to an end and the two-year training program officially began.
The new class consists of 23 recruits: 13 from the Coast Guard, five from the Dutch Caribbean Police Force (KPCN) and five from the Sint Maarten Police Force (KPSM). The joint training program highlights the close cooperation between the various services within the Caribbean part of the Kingdom of the Netherlands.
During ‘Stronger Together’ the focus was on personal development, physical and mental resilience, teamwork, discipline and professional skills. Over the course of four weeks, the recruits worked on their individual development while learning, above all, to function as one team.
The introduction period concluded with a final exercise, after which the recruits returned together to Marine Base Parera. Upon arrival, they were welcomed in accordance with tradition during a ceremonial entry.
Over the next two years, the recruits will continue their education and preparation for their future duties within the Coast Guard and the police forces. The program will further develop their professional knowledge, operational skills, integrity, teamwork and ability to act professionally under a wide range of circumstances.
The Caribbean Netherlands Police Force, the Sint Maarten Police Force and the Dutch Caribbean Coast Guard wish all recruits all the best during their training and continued development. Together, they are taking an important step towards a future in which they will contribute to safety, security and law enforcement throughout the Caribbean region.
