The US Embassy in Côte d'Ivoire on September 21, 2026, officially handed over the rehabilitated facilities of the Police Research and Assistance Force (FRAP) in Korhogo. This project is part of a counter-terrorism assistance program aimed at enhancing the operational capabilities of Ivorian security forces. The handover ceremony was attended by Ivorian authorities and representatives of the US Embassy.
Ivorian Prefect Karim Diarrassouba expressed his government's gratitude to the US for this "strategic investment in local and national security." He highlighted the significance of the FRAP's presence in Korhogo, given the region's proximity to the borders with Mali and Burkina Faso, and the need for constant vigilance against security threats and transnational crime.
The rehabilitation of the FRAP facilities aims to provide police officers with better working conditions, enabling them to maximize the benefits of training and equipment provided through cooperation with US partners. Prefect Diarrassouba also announced efforts to clarify the site's land ownership and allocate it to the National Police's patrimony.
US Embassy representative Zachary Gurstch emphasized that the support to FRAP demonstrates a shared commitment to developing professional and effective law enforcement agencies. He stressed that combating terrorism requires cooperation, information sharing, leadership, training, and coordination among national and international partners.
General of Police Dosso Siaka, representing the Director-General of the Police, welcomed the US support and encouraged FRAP elements to make the most of their acquired skills and continue their mission with professionalism. He emphasized the importance of preserving and transmitting these skills to future generations of police officers.
The US has strengthened its support to Ivorian units engaged in counter-terrorism efforts since 2024, particularly through training and equipment for FRAP and the National Gendarmerie's Intervention Unit (UIGN) based in Kong. This project aims to enhance the capabilities of Ivorian security forces to address regional security challenges.
The handover of the rehabilitated FRAP facilities demonstrates the ongoing cooperation between Côte d'Ivoire and the US in the security sector. The project is expected to contribute to the development of a more effective and professional law enforcement agency in Côte d'Ivoire.
Key points
- The US Embassy in Côte d'Ivoire has rehabilitated and handed over the facilities of the Police Research and Assistance Force (FRAP) in Korhogo as part of a counter-terrorism assistance program.
- The project aims to enhance the operational capabilities of Ivorian security forces and address regional security challenges.
- The US has strengthened its support to Ivorian units engaged in counter-terrorism efforts since 2024.
