On 23rd December 2016, handing-taking of Four Community Police Patrol Car was held at the Royal Bhutan Police, HQs Thimphu. The four patrol cars were procured through the Grant Assistance for Grassroots Projects (GGP), Government of Japan. The new cars were inaugurated and handed over by His Excellency Ambassador Kenji Hiramatsu, Ambassador of Japan in New Delhi on behalf of the Government of Japan to His Excellency, Lyonpo Norbu Wangchuk, Minister for Education, Bhutan.
The ceremony was also attended by representatives from the Embassy of Japan in New Delhi, JICA office, MoHCA, GNHC, Dzongda, MoFA, Department of Budget and Officers of the Royal Bhutan Police. The project cost amounting to US $ 1,39,313/- provides four patrol cars to the four Community Police Centers in Bumthang, Paro, Trashigang and Wangdue Phodrang. To be effective and foster positive relationship, police must either be in close proximity to the communities they serve or respond swiftly and professionally to any call for help from the member of the community. To this end, the grant of four new cars will further enhance police mobility and move a step closer to the community.
HE Lyonpo Norbu Wangchuk, who received the cars on behalf of the Royal Government of Bhutan stated “On behalf of the people of Bhutan, it was an honour to receive the generous gift of four police patrol cars from the people of Japan. The event was auspicious as we celebrate the 30 years of diplomatic relationship between our two Countries and as we observe the birthday of The Imperial His Majesty Akihito The Emperor of Japan. Thank you to the people of Japan for the continued generosity”.
Earlier in 2014 the Royal Bhutan Police also received six patrol cars for six Community Police Centers located in and around the Capital through the same grant (GGP).
The Government of Japan hopes that the six patrol cars provided in 2014 and the addition of four new cars will further enhance police mobility and help foster close relationship with the community. HE Ambassador Hiramatsu cited that it is a reminder to the people of the friendship between the two Countries.