Chidambaram Flags off BSF contingent to Congo

New Delhi, July 7 (ANI): The 4th BSF contingent for UN Peace Keeping in Congo was flagged off here today by Union Home Minister P.Chidambaram.

In his address, DG BSF M.L.Kumawat said that a strict criterion of selection was adopted and members of the contingent were selected based on their good record of service, professional competence, excellent physical fitness and skill at arms.

They were given specialized training about the terrain and difficulties in Congo, human rights and the duties of the Formed Police Unit, he said.

"As per the prevailing situation in Congo, they were trained to combat the menace of civil war and assist the local police in maintaining law and order. They were taught French and trained in mob dispersal, riot control, protective patrolling, driving, aid to civilians, human rights, etc," Kumawat added.

At present, BSF Contingents are deployed in Colombo and Congo.

The BSF Peace Keeping Mission Contingent proceeding to Congo has a total strength of 125 personnel. This is the fourth consecutive contingent to the Democratic Republic of Congo and the team will be deployed from July 9, 2009 at Goma.

Congo is almost as large as Eastern Europe and is the third biggest country in Africa, bordering Uganda, Rwanda and Burundi.

Since the outbreak of violence in Congo, at least four million people are estimated to be killed and 2.5 million forced to flee their homes. (ANI)