Police World Edition 4, 2013

Article

Catherine takes over: My amazing adventure began when I was met by my wonderful hosts – Ola (Alexandra Gaczorek-Adamczyk) and IPA Secretary of Region Krakow Andrzej Gaczorek. The two weeks were action packed and I learnt a huge amount and I saw so many things and met so many people... too many to mention in this article. Every day I met incredible people who overwhelmed me with their kindness and generosity and who truly made me feel part of their family. Here is just a taste of what I experienced. I started working with the Oddzial Prewencji Policji (OPP), the riot police unit - which was a brilliant experience. I watched them train for a hostage situation and was lucky enough to have a quick test of a Kalashnikov. Later a bonfire and BBQ was held to relax. In Krakow headquarters I visited the crime laboratory where the lead experts are based for e-fits and CSI and I was given demonstrations of equipment and how images of suspects are created. A tour of the juvenile cells and the adult cells followed. I met with the counter terrorist unit (Samodzielny Pododdział Antyterrorystyczny Policji/SPAP) for a fascinating insight into their role, and I had a good nosey at their armoury. The underground range provided me with the chance to test the Walther P-99 pistol which most polish officers carry. I then went on patrol with Lukasz Adamczyk and Kamil Dacka. We responded to calls including suspicious males, thefts, intoxicated persons causing a nuisance and drugs searches. The next day was football duty as I again worked with Lukasz and Kamil on a late shift. The game was Wista Krakow v Gornik Zabrze. Due to potential crowd trouble they decided to pull me out of the crew and instead place me inside the stadium where I could watch the game! The water police took me for a spin on the river, and demonstrated how fast their boats could go which was awesome! I also spent a morning in the company of pilot Henryk Mika and was given a guided tour of the helicopters. On the last Friday I was honoured to be invited to attend the Police Day celebrations. This event is held in Nowy Sacz to mark those who are getting their promotions. Many dignitaries were in attendance. I then went on to the official opening of a brand new station in Stary Sacz. I would like to thank everyone I met in Poland especially Ola and her family, the IPA for arranging the exchange and my bosses who let me go! I look forward

Paul, with hosts, sightseeing in the beautiful town of Gniezno Back in one piece

to welcoming you to Northern Ireland in the near future and introducing you to my friends in L’Derry! Catherine Hainsworth , Northern Ireland North West branch

View more pictures

at www.ipa- uk.org/Polish- Placement

A real honour - on parade

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Police World Vol 58 No.4 2013