A representative of the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) for the Middle East and North Africa, paid a visit to Aden, to discuss UNODC’s support to Yemen in combating corruption, organized crime, enhancing maritime security, forensic services, and health systems. In a press statement, Christina Albertin, Regional Representative of UNODC she mentioned that UNODC is working closely with the Yemeni Coast Guard to strengthen maritime security through training and equipping personnel, expanding training and operations rooms, and maintaining and repairing patrol boats. Albertin met with Yemeni officials to discuss the rehabilitation of damaged coast guard facilities, including centers in Ras Amran, Khor Omira, and Shaqra, as well as plans to restore the recently reclaimed training center from Security Belt Forces, which will serve as a cornerstone for enhancing the skills of security and maritime personnel. The visit concluded with a field tour of Coast Guard facilities and a live maritime exercise aboard the Aden patrol boat. The drill, involving a “boarding and inspection” operation by the Coast Guard’s special assault team, showcased the high readiness and professionalism of Yemeni forces in executing operational tasks. Established in Cairo in 1997, the UNODC Regional Office for the Middle East and North Africa supports member states in addressing challenges related to drugs, organized crime, corruption, and terrorism. The office oversees program offices in Yemen and nine other Arab countries, employing more than 130 staff members. |
