The Republic of Srpska

Following the ceremonial oath taken today at the Training Centre in Zalužani, 573 cadets of the 26th and 27th class of the Police Academy were formally appointed as police officers of the Republic of Srpska Ministry of the Interior.

The Republic of Srpska Minister of the Interior, Mr Željko Budimir, congratulated the cadets and their families on this important day in their lives, emphasizing that he expected the highest level of dedication from every member of the Ministry, since they were entrusted with the safety of all people in the Republic of Srpska.

“The standards for the new generation of police officers are exceptionally high, which is why those who perform their duties best will be awarded,” stated Minister Budimir. He added that the Ministry was in the process of significant rejuvenation of its personnel, which was part of a planned process linked to the retirement of a number of police officers.

The Prime Minister of the Republic of Srpska, Mr Savo Minić, highlighted that the profession of a police officer required both skill and patriotism, noting that the Government and the Republic had trust in the members of the Ministry of the Interior, who represented a pillar of security in challenging times.

He added that it was an honour to be a member of the Ministry of the Interior of the Republic of Srpska.

Nikola Okuka, a cadet of the 26th class and one of the three best cadets, said that taking the oath was a great honour for him.

“The police force is being rejuvenated, and we will carry out our duties in the best possible way, even though this is far from easy today, considering the challenges, risks, and threats faced by modern society,” he said.

The ceremony was attended by the Director of Police, Mr Siniša Kostrešević, as well as other senior officials of the Ministry, and numerous family members.

The Police Academy in Banja Luka was established in 1999 and so far it has provided education for 3660 cadets in 27 classes.