First wave of public safety officers launch activities in Tbilisi

The first wave of 63 public safety officers have officially launched their work in Tbilisi today to prevent crime.

The establishment of the public safety officers’ institute is part of the Interior Ministry “Systemic Renovation” initiative.

The institution of the Public Safety Officer’s is the new division of the criminal police, which will completely replace the outdated institute of district officers.

Interior Minister addressed the officers. Photo: Interior Ministry press office. 

Georgian Interior Minister Giorgi Gakharia has addressed the officers and told them that their duty, to look out for each and every Georgian citizen, is of the highest importance.

The crucial part of the Interior Ministry Systemic Renovation reform is reforming the Criminal Police and separating its district, investigative and operative-response activities.

Today you start taking your first steps in the Vake-Saburtalo district of Tbilisi and your steps should further strengthen the bridge between police and people. Your goal is to prevent crimes and you should meet the goal very effectively. Each of the family in your districts should perceive you as their friends who care about their safety,” Gakharia said.

The Interior Ministry will have 365 public safety officers chosen from the existing staff or selected based on open competition, testing, interviews and physical training.

The institution of public order officers is aimed at community-oriented approaches and policing.

The officers will initially cover all districts in Tbilisi and then Georgian regions.