The Ethiopian Federal Police has announced the establishment of the country's first 'Marine Police' force dedicated to protecting the artificial lake of the Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam.
Assistant Commissioner Solomon Kebede told EBC's Dotstream that the Federal Police has been fulfilling its mission to ensure peace and security at the site since the dam's foundation stone was laid on April 02, 2011 G.C.
He explained that the approximately 256-kilometer expanse of the lake necessitates the establishment of a 'Coastal Police Guard', rather than a regular police force, which is why this specialized unit was organized.
In this regard, he pointed out that work is underway in collaboration with the Defense Engineering to prepare boats, strengthen the organizational structure of the personnel, and provide training.
The assistant commissioner stated that there are no threats in the area and that preventative work as well as escorting materials intended for the dam are ongoing activities.
Furthermore, he stated that they will carry out their duties effectively in accordance with the mandate given by the government.