section 1.1 basic un verification and investigation techniques un peacekeeping pdt standards,...

Section 1.1 Basic UN verification and investigation techniques

UN Peacekeeping PDT Standards, Specialized Training Material for Military Experts on Mission 1st Edition 2009

Basic UN verification and investigation techniques

Section 1.1



The aim of this section is to provide peacekeepers with an

understanding of the procedures and techniques involved in

conducting verifications and investigations in a complex United

Nations peace operation environment .

Aim



On completion of this section, participants will be able to:

• Understand the definition, aim and phases of the verification process in a United Nations peace operation environment to allow peacekeepers to conduct verification.• Understand the definition, identify the types, and be aware of the investigative procedures to allow peacekeepers to conduct investigation.

Learning Outcome



Verification is “the process of establishing the truth or validity of

something”

(PSO Field Manual B-GG-007-001/FP-001)

A definition



Verification

• Aim

• Authority

• Scheduling a verification



• Phase 1 Planning, preparation and briefing

• Phase 2 Execution

• Phase 3 Debriefing and reporting

Phases of a verification/inspection



Phase 1 Planning, Preparation and Briefing

• Clarify the aim and objectives.• Plan the route and localities to be visited.• Determine whether a Liaison Officer will be required.• Check your vehicle and kit requirements, procedures, restrictions.• Select and check the verification kit.• Ensure you have your ID card.• Mount the UN flag on the vehicle.



Phase 2 Execution

•Always enter positions through the main entrance. Count armaments according to the agreement. •Be sure you cover the entire area.•Maintain continuous radio contact with your HQ.•Log/note all figures in your file and ensure that all members sign the file before dropping the LO off.•Request from the operations centre the time they logged your reports on restrictions and special incidents for ease of future reference (“log-in time”)•Never show maps, figures or results to non-mission personnel.•Report facts only; no speculations or guesswork.



Phase 2 Execution (cont.)

•Be suspicious and cautious, yet polite. Never expose yourself to unnecessary danger during the investigation.•Be strictly impartial and do not yield to pressures from any party.•In addition to your task, observe road conditions, terrain and the presence of obstacles of any kind, especially minefields.



Phase 3 Debriefing and Reporting

Complete a debriefing and patrol report immediately upon your return from the verification mission.



MEoMs may be required to be the initial investigating

authority for an incident.

Investigations



• Firing violation• Construction upgrading• Entries into DMZ• Hostage-taking, hijacking, abductions or

missing persons• Assaults or murders• Human rights violations

Types of investigations



Authority to conduct complete investigations will be stipulated in the

Force agreement and mandate.

Authority to conduct investigations



• Clarify the aim of the investigation• Conduct a map reconnaissance• Assemble the required kit• Collect and review pertinent information• Identify, and if required, contact other parties• Verify current restrictions• Notify HQ of their destination /intentions• Brief the investigative team.

Preparations for investigations



Investigative procedure

• Maintain radio contact and reporting movement progress

• Recording all activity and details such as:• Upon arrival, isolating and protecting the scene:• Designate responsibilities for undertaking:• Then, attempt to determine what happened• Draw conclusions



• Verbal

• Material

• Circumstantial

Forms of Evidence



• Record the location. If possible, photograph the evidence.

• Do not disturb evidence• Minimize the number of persons

handling the evidence• Maintain a record that defines the

continuity of evidence• Use a scale of reference when

photographing evidence.

Evidence Handling



• Confirm their identities • Ascertain and record where they can

be found or reached• Separate witnesses• A witness can become a suspect• Consider a witness’s motivation to talk

Witnesses



• Compare notes• Assess the credibility of witnesses• Identify any corroborating information• Identify any contradictory information• Exercise caution in drawing conclusions

Evidence Assessment



QUESTIONS?

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