The first Samoan police officer to train at the Federal Bureau of Investigation National Academy in the United States has returned.

Inspector Solomona Nātia returns home after completing the 286th Session of the Federal Bureau of Investigation National Academy International Partnership Program (FBINA).

Samoa Police, Prisons and Corrections Services members were among 238 participants from across the US and around the world who graduated from the Academy.

 “The training course has been the best professional experience of my life", said Inspector Nātia.

The 286th Session included members of law enforcement agencies, military organisations and federal civilian organisations.

The Police Prosecutor graduated with a diploma from the FBINA and an undergraduate certificate in Criminal Justice from the University of Virginia.

The 10-week course encompasses advanced communication, leadership and fitness training.

Inspector Solomona Nātia said the training course built a great sense of empowerment and accountability and a great deal of leadership skills development and strengthening of network and relationships between law enforcement.

The senior member of SPPCS acknowledged the opportunity he had experienced and expressed the value of the training. He further added the knowledge and skills he has achieved and gained from FBINA will be utilised where applicable, and hope to use it to inspire other fellow officers to grow in their fields.

Meanwhile, Samoa Police, Prisons and Corrections Services Maritime Wing and Samoa Fire and Emergency Service Authority members were fortunate to spend time with the HMNZS Taupo crew from the New Zealand Navy (New Zealand Defence Force).

On Friday morning, Samoa Police, Prisons and Corrections Services members were presented with certificates for some of the training conducted by the crew and presented with gear donated by the New Zealand HMNZS Taupo.

In the past few weeks, the team provided training on medical procedures and boarding techniques, and search and rescue training.

To conclude their weeks of training Maritime Wing members had the chance to be trained on boatmanship and boarding training.

As a token of appreciation, Deputy  Commissioner Lafaitele Herbert Aati presented a traditional ava bowl to show gratitude.

SPPCS Commissioner and Management also had the privilege to host the Chief of Navy of New Zealand Rear Admiral David Proctor at their headquarters.