Ashgabat, Turkmenistan, May 25
By Huseyn Hasanov- Trend:
The OSCE-organized practical training courses for some 43 officials from the Aviation Security Service and Aviation School of Turkmenistan Airlines, as well as the Transport Police Service of the Interior Ministry, the State Customs Service and State Border Service on X-ray for baggage and passenger screening at airports, concluded May 25 in Ashgabat.
International experts from the UK delivered two identical training courses on international regulations addressing aviation security, state-of-the-art search techniques and the recognition of firearms, explosive devices and prohibited items.
"In our turbulent times, ensuring aviation security remains a challenging task for governments, law-enforcement bodies, aviation personnel and other involved parties," said Richard Wheeler, political officer of the OSCE Centre in Ashgabat.
"Organized as part of the Centre's project to enhance infrastructure security, these activities acquire a special importance as Turkmenistan is actively preparing for the 5th Asian Indoor and Martial Arts Games, which will be held in September 2017," said Wheeler.
He added that the Games will attract a large number of sportsmen, media, sports officials and fans.
"It is our strong belief that the training courses on X-ray screening will help the relevant officials manage the increased passenger flow while ensuring the observation of efficient security procedures," explained Wheeler.
During the training courses, participants also discussed the operation and safety of modern X-ray machines, X-ray image interpretation and screening of people and baggage. Special emphasis was placed on gender-specific screening. Practical exercises focused on X-ray image interpretation techniques, item recognition and consent search techniques.
Both training courses were held in the premises of the Aviation School of Turkmenistan Airlines.