The representatives of the General Police Inspectorate of the Republic of Moldova gathered at a workshop to develop the Standard Operating Procedures for the small arms and light weapons (SALW) related investigations. The event was conducted in Chișinău during 10-13 October 2023 with the support of the European Union, offered through UNDP SEESAC (South East European Small Arms and Light Weapons Control Centre).

The workshop follows the recommendations and conclusions of the Needs Assessment Report on Capacities of the General Police Inspectorate to counter illicit trafficking and possession of firearms, conducted in November 2021. The development of Standard Operating Procedures was identified as one of the primary needs in the straightening of implementation of the legislative framework in the field of countering illicit arms trafficking. 

“The management of small arms and light weapons becomes a major priority for the Republic of Moldova, but also the international community. Today's event gives us the perfect opportunity to adapt our operating procedures to the new context of challenges, so that we can respond promptly to any risk or challenge situation,” mentioned Alexandru Bejan, Deputy Head of the General Police Inspectorate of the Republic of Moldova.

As a further step for the enhancement of the capacities of investigation, approximately US$350,000 are allocated by the European Union through UNDP SEESAC for the procurement of equipment for the detection of firearms and data collection.

“The development of standard operating procedures for SALW related investigations represents an important step in combating the illicit possession, misuse and trafficking of firearms. Let us all work together to ensure security for all people of Moldova and contribute to a safer region,” said Daniela Gasparikova, UNDP Resident Representative to the Republic of Moldova.

The support for the enhancement of the capacities of the Criminal Police to counter illicit trafficking and possession of firearm is provided in the framework of the EU Council Decision (CFSP) 2022/2321.

SEESAC is a joint initiative of UNDP and the Regional Cooperation Council and works closely with the governments of South-Eastern and Eastern Europe. Through its activities, SEESAC aims to strengthen the capacities of stakeholders in South East and East Europe to control and reduce the proliferation and misuse of small arms and light weapons, promote gender equality, to facilitate regional cooperation regional and to contribute to increasing stability, security and development