Uniformed forces being trained to fight cyber crime

UNIFORMED forces are being trained in online investigation to curb cybercrime, which has become a threat to the country.

Speaking at the School of Military Police Graduation ceremony held at Mzilikazi Barracks yesterday, Brigadier-General Fidelis Mhonda said military training conducted in the second half of this year was designed to enhance soldiers' investigative skills, administration of justice and maintaining discipline to curb cybercrimes countrywide.

One hundred and sixty three students drawn from Zimbabwe National Army (ZNA), Airforce of Zimbabwe, Zimbabwe Republic Police and Zimbabwe Prisons and Correctional Services (ZPCS) graduated in eight courses.

Brig-Gen Mhonda said the training was meant to meet standard techniques needed in dealing with crime trends in the cyberspace era.

"Cybercrime is one of the greatest threats now facing our country and has enormous implications for our national security, economic prosperity and public safety," he said.

"The courses were primarily meant to impart and synchronise investigation techniques in tandem with current crime trends incorporating cyber and white collar crimes in your various organisations."

"I am sure that you are all aware that today's crime trends and policing methodologies are dynamic and constantly changing thereby necessitating the need for police officers like yourselves to always keep track of such dynamics and adjust your policing techniques in order to remain effective in crime prevention, detecting, investigating and general maintenance of discipline."

Brig-Gen Mhonda said the training was necessary for prison officers to be up to date with new correctional and rehabilitation methods.

"It has been brought to my attention that there are 15 female students graduating today and I have been briefed that most of them matched their male counterparts in all aspects. Let me say to you ladies, well done for your efforts," said Brig-Gen Mhonda.