On 13-17 July 2026, UNICRI conducted a third practical training course for operative officers on special operations aimed at countering radiological and nuclear (RN) trafficking. The training was held at the United Nations Campus in Turin, Italy and brought together representatives of the Security Service of Ukraine dealing with RN security.
Organized within the framework of the CONTACT – Black Sea project, the 5-day training enabled participants to develop and test new skills in conducting criminal intelligence operations with a specific focus on RN material trafficking.
Building on the theoretical course on countering RN trafficking delivered earlier in 2026, the programme featured a series of individual and group practical exercises based on real operational scenarios. These hands-on activities were designed to equip participants with key behavioral techniques and strengthen their decision-making skills under stressful conditions at different stages of an operation. The theoretical component, which refreshed and reinforced the knowledge gained during the earlier training, was complemented by contributions from the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI). FBI experts shared their extensive experience in detecting and investigating weapons of mass destruction (WMD)-related crimes, presented the FBI's Undercover Safeguard Program, and discussed relevant case studies.
The training was also supported by the First Intervention Unit of the Carabinieri of Italy and ORTEC (a leading manufacturer of radiation detection and identification equipment), with ORTEC demonstrating its equipment and providing participants with the opportunity to use it during the practical training activities.
Preventing RN materials from falling into the wrong hands remains a global security priority. The ongoing war in Ukraine and the resulting challenges to regulatory control over radioactive sources underscore the urgent need for security and law enforcement agencies to strengthen efforts to counter the illicit trafficking of RN materials. UNICRI remains committed to supporting its partners in the Black Sea region in addressing this critical challenge.
Background
The current phase of the CONTACT–Black Sea project focuses on strengthening operative capabilities in Ukraine and Moldova while also enhancing regional cooperation to counter the trafficking of radiological and nuclear materials. In response to partner countries’ needs, UNICRI will continue delivering advanced training for security and law enforcement officers, while strengthening inter-agency coordination and regional collaboration through dedicated workshops and table-top exercises.
CONTACT–Black Sea project is funded by the Swedish Radiation Safety Authority (SSM), the United Kingdom’s Department for Energy Security and Net Zero (DESNZ), and the Norwegian Radiation and Nuclear Safety Authority (DSA).
