Radiological crime scene management course provides opportunity for experts to learn during simulation exercises

The International Training Centre, with the support of the National Bureau of Investigation and the Centre of Energy Research, organised CEPOL course 65/2024 on “Radiological Crime Scene Management”. The course took place from 28 to 31 May in Budapest, Hungary on two locations; at the the International Training Centre, and in the Centre for Energy Research. The activity was attended by 22 officials from 13 Member States.

The aim of the course was to improve the response and the capacity to deal with radiological incidents in law enforcement services. The target group were law enforcement and radiological experts specialised in the processing of crime scenes contaminated with radioactive material until the start of nuclear forensics. 

The main goal of the 4-day long course was to increase the ability to detect radiological agents and the methodology for collecting evidence as well as how to manage such sites. The participants successfully established effective capabilities in this field by getting and exchanging knowledge and experience regarding the preparation, planning and the organisation of a coordinated response to radiological crime scenes.

The course started with a theoretical day when the experts gave lectures among others about the radiation protection, devices and materials and they presented the key elements as well as the roles and the responsibilities of the Radiological Crime Scene.

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Two days were designated to exercise their knowledge during the practice of examination and detection of different radiological materials. One of the aims of the simulation exercise was to give the students an insight into the physical reality of the theoretical knowledge provided by the experts. Participants also had the opportunity to demonstrate their practical skills to find radiological materials hidden at different places and the twist in the exercise was a fake source. During the practical exercises the participants worked in small groups, monitored by several trainers.

The students were engaged and enthusiastic, they gathered lots of useful information and practical knowledge during the course.

The organisers with the support of the Hungarian experts succeeded in transferring practical knowledge at a European level, which can greatly contribute to the development and implementation of Member States' own practices.

Author: Hungarian CEPOL National Unit

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