More Training

Well we have learned a few things during our induction training with the UN. The most important things I have learned about what to expect from our mission and our postings is from talking to other police and military personnel. There were, however, some good lectures that opened my eyes to how Sudan works. There is a constitution and there are laws and a criminal justice system in place, however, they are rarely followed.


Lounging with the boys after another hard day
of training. Yes it's Bacardi and yes it was snuck in.


Sharia Law is Muslim law which exists mainly in northern Sudan. It is basically based on muslim tradition and religion. For example, Muslims do not drink alcohol as part of their religion. If they are caught, they could receive 50 lashes. Children receive lashes too for not praying as they should. They pray 5 times a day here. If a women complains of sexual assault she is placed in custody until the suspect turns himself in. There have to be at least 4 witnesses as well. If a woman is arrested, she can bring her children with her to keep them safe. She is given one meal a day for herself and the children are given nothing. There is an 11 year old girl that has been in prison since January 2006 for murder. In order for her family to get her out they have to pay 30 cows or the $15,000 which is the equivalent. In southern Sudan, they barely have jail cells. If they do, it is 4 walls. Not toilet or water, you sleep on the ground, and men, women, and children stay in the same jail cell. Where there are no jail cells, the arrested are trees or kept in make shift jails made of sticks and wire.



Sexually Transmitted Infection lecture. Something we will likely be teaching as part of our duties.



My partner and I can not wait to get to our mission in Torit. The rest of our team as well is looking forward to getting to their postings. It has been a long week and a half, and hopefully we do not have to spend too much time in Juba.

Cheers,

Gonzo