CBRNe workshop in the Kingdom of Bahrein

Dear Colleagues, Dear Friends,

We are pleased to announce that on February 14, 2025, we returned from the Kingdom of Bahrain after a highly productive and engaging visit. Over the course of four days, we participated in institutional meetings, followed by a three-day workshop titled: "Non-Conventional Safety and Security Workshop: The CBRNe Challenges Nowadays – NCSSN". The event was hosted at the Royal Police Academy of Bahrain and organized by the Bahrain Public Security – Bahrain Ministry of Interior, in collaboration with the International Master Courses in Protection against CBRNe Events at the University of Rome Tor Vergata and HESAR. Additionally, the workshop featured the participation of two leading Italian companies specializing in radiation detection, CAEN Sys and ELSE NUCLEAR, along with Tech Flow, a prominent Saudi Arabian company specializing in radiation protection.

The workshop commenced following high-level meetings at the Ministry of Interior of the Kingdom of Bahrain, where we had the honor of engaging with His Excellency Major General Tariq bin Hassan Al Hassan, Chief of Public Security, and Major General Sheikh Hamad bin Mohammed Al Khalifa, Deputy Chief of Public Security.

During the workshop, presentations covered critical topics, including Chemical, Biological, Radiological, and Nuclear (CBRNe) risks, investigation protocols in the event of CBRNe incidents, and the importance of education and training in this field, with a particular focus on the MasterCBRN program at the University of Rome Tor Vergata. Additionally, discussions highlighted emerging challenges in CBRNe research, including the role of drones, artificial intelligence, and innovative software solutions in emergency management. The event also featured product demonstrations showcasing cutting-edge instrumentation and technologies developed by industry leaders.

We extend our sincere gratitude to the esteemed speakers who contributed their expertise to the workshop: Prof. Andrea Malizia, Prof. Pasquale Gaudio, Dr. Colomba Russo, and Dr. Alba Iannotti from the University of Rome Tor Vergata; Major Daniele Del Gaudio from 7th Regiment CBRN Cremona, Italian Army; Dr. Fanny Ewann from INTERPOL; Dr. Jacopo Givoletti and Dr. Giacomo Mangiagalli from CAEN Sys; Dr. Giuliano Mini from ELSE NUCLEAR; and Dr. Abdulrahman Al-Dibasi from Tech Flow.

The workshop also included practical activities, featuring training sessions on the use of HOTSPOT and ALOHA software. Additionally, two comprehensive Tabletop Exercises (TTXs) were conducted—one focused on chemical emergencies and the other on radiological emergencies. These exercises engaged all 120 participants, who took on the roles of advisors to decision-makers and first responders. We extend our appreciation to Dr. Michael Ian Thornton, the designer of the TTXs, as well as to Dr. Alba Iannotti and Dr. Colomba Russo for their role as facilitators. We also commend all participants for their outstanding contributions to these exercises.

The workshop concluded with a formal closing ceremony, during which certificates of attendance were awarded to participants. The event was honored by the presence of Brigadier Ali Al Kubaisi, General Director of Civil Defence, who hosted us at the prestigious venue of the Royal Police Academy.

On the final day, an official dinner was held in the presence of His Excellency Major General Tariq bin Hassan Al Hassan, Major General Sheikh Hamad bin Mohammed Al Khalifa, Brigadier Ali Al Kubaisi, and several distinguished officers of the Bahrain Police. This gathering provided an opportunity to further strengthen cooperation and discuss future educational and training initiatives.

We return to Italy enriched with new knowledge, invaluable experiences, and a deep appreciation for the hospitality of the Kingdom of Bahrain. In particular, we extend our heartfelt gratitude to our esteemed colleague, Major Qasim Saleh, whose dedication and commitment played a pivotal role in facilitating this remarkable experience.

Thank you, Qasim.

Exciting new opportunities await us.

STAY TUNED!