press release

U.S. Ambassador Robert J. Callahan donated $200,000 in vehicles, computers and anti-narcotics scanning equipment to the Nicaraguan National Police.  The event marked his first official visit to Police Commissioner Aminta Granera.

01 October, 2008

On Wednesday, October 1st, 2008, United States Ambassador to Nicaragua, Robert J. Callahan, held his first official courtesy call with National Police Commissioner Aminta Granera at Police Headquarters.

The Ambassador took the opportunity to deliver equipment to support the National Police’s efforts in the war on drugs.  The donation included 24 computers with printers and other accessories; 2 pickup trucks, 28 motorcycles, 2 photocopiers with maintenance service contracts, 1 portable ionic scanner, and 4 digital cameras.  The complete donation amounts to $200,000 USD and is part of the Embassy’s ongoing program to support the Anti-Narcotics Unit and the Youth Programs Division of the National Police. The United States Embassy, through its International Narcotics and Law Enforcement Office (INL) has donated approximately $4.5 million to National Police in equipment, vehicles, training, and more. Throughout the fiscal year 2008, the National Police have captured more than 19 tons of cocaine.

In his speech, Ambassador Callahan congratulated National Police for its efforts and expressed the wishes of the people and government of the United States for continued support to the National Police, and recognized their hard work in the war on drugs.

The Embassy, through its INL Office, has a longstanding relationship with National Police, and in particular with the Anti-Narcotics Unit, Anti-Corruption Unit, the Mobile Inspection Unit, K-9 Program; and the Youth Programs Division through its DARE and Second Step Programs that focus on youth who are exposed to drugs.

 

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