A total of 1,700 elements of the Rapid Intervention Battalion, BIR, upon completion of their training have been presented their end-of-course diplomas in a dual ceremony at the Man’ O War Bay training facility.
The ceremony was presided over by the Senior Divisional officer for Fako Zang III, and commanded by the General Mpay Philip in the presence of Government Delegates to the Limbe City Council, Andrew Motanga, Mayor Nseke Luma of Limbe III Council and other dignitaries.
The dual event included the presentation of troops and the handing over of the diplomas to meritorious candidates.
The graduated troops were recruited in the December session, but 16 of them were dismissed for misconduct while 6 were injured in the course of the training. 36 resigned leaving a total of 1,700 trainees who endured to the end.
They thus completed the 4,000 kilometres walk to demonstrate their capability to execute the task they have been trained for.
General Mpay in his address to the BIRs, urged them to be committed to serving their fatherland especially at this moment that the state is faced with danger from the terrorist group “Boko Haram”.
He also told them to serve in honour and fidelity so as to restore and maintain peace in Cameroon. The heavily attended event was spiced with an interesting and colourful march past while the crowd which comprised of family members and loved ones cheered the “elements” as they marched past the grandstand.
