Women across the world are known to shatter glass ceiling now and then. And women in the UAE are no different. Right from breaking a world record to playing for the National football team, Emirati women have shown that they are here to rule the world. And now, women have just broken another barrier by joining the SWAT (Special Weapons and Tactics) team in the UAE. Yes, Sharjah has recruited a group of 10 women into the first all-women SWAT team.
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The 10-Trained Female Commandos Will Be Deployed For Anti-Riot And Other Operations
The 10-trained commandos will be deployed for anti-riot and other essential operations. These strong and talented women are now a part of the UAE’s punishment and rehabilitation facility. They have taken special training and have access to a host of weapons, armour, and surveillance devices beyond standard police equipment.
The group has been trained for working round the clock and are well equipped to handle rough situations. On this, Brigadier Ahmad Abdul Aziz Shuhail, director-general of the Sharjah Punitive and Rehabilitation Establishment, in an interview with Gulf News, said,
“The team will be available around the clock and will be available for the safety and security of detainees. The 10-women commando officials will also join advanced courses in the near future to hone their skills.”
The 10-Female SWAT Commandos Have Done Intensive Training To Be A Part Of The Team
Speaking about their profiles and duties, Brigadier Suhail also added that they would also guard detainees who pose a danger to other prisoners. Brigadier Suhail also spoke about the 10-female SWAT commandos and their training. He said,
“The 10 female SWAT commandos have undergone intensive training which includes basic, commando and advanced skills improvement under the guidance of professional police trainers. Sharjah police trained the commandos for all riot duty under the unit of the special force cell.”
The Emirati female commandos, aged between 24 to 44, have been a part of the Sharjah police force for quite some time now. Speaking about their journey with Gulf News, they thanked Major General Saif Ziri Al Shamsi, Commander-in-Chief of the Sharjah Police and his support. For them, they are the luckiest citizens to be a part of this great nation, where their leaders are working so much for gender equality.
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Each SWAT Team Member Is Grateful For This Opportunity
Feeling thankful for this opportunity, the SWAT team added that the women of the Sharjah Police are not only treated with respect but are given equal opportunities and access to the community. The SWAT women team, who prove that women can do everything they want, also recalled their journey with Gulf News.
Assistant Nora Ahmad Al Zarouni, who is the leader of the group, has worked for Sharjah Police for 12 years in varied departments like airport strategy and several policy stations, is very grateful for this opportunity. She said,
“I am proud to have been chosen as group leader, which is a great responsibility. Most of us are mothers and we have families and we have to find a balance between home and work. We are working for state security and safety. “
Training, Equal Opportunity And Constant Support Helped Them Achieve This Position
Meanwhile, Sergeant Lateefa Abbas, who is with Sharjah Police for 20 years, is proud to be a part of the first local SWAT group in Sharjah.
The training process was quite demanding and intense, but these women showed courage and never gave up. Speaking about her journey, Sergeant Lateefa said,
“I have worked hard and know the few of us who have put it all together. The company has high expectations from the Sharjah Police Force, and to meet those expectations, we need a good working environment.”
Nasra Suleiman, who is in the police for 14 years, is working in the women’s section of Sharjah prisons since 2013. Speaking about this intensive training and encouragement she received from the officials, Nasra said,
“At first I was afraid of the idea. I became interested in sports activities and practised at the Sharjah Officers Club.”
Well, not Nasra Suleiman, but Mona Ali has also worked in the Women’s Prison for 14 years. And this training and opportunity boosted her self-confidence. She said,
“The training gave me self-confidence. I trained in shooting, martial arts and combat techniques. At first, I was afraid of the exercises, but later I overcame the fear. The SWAT experience is new but I love it.”
The training not only made these women strong but also helped them gain confidence and strength. Jawaher Ali Hasan, who is associated with Sharjah Police for two-years, said,
“The course added to my confidence and strength. I also gained increased knowledge and made a balance between things at home and at work.”
Other women of the SWAT team, have similar stories and experiences, and we hope that they continue to shine bright like a diamond in the UAE. Their story not only inspires all the young women but proves that women if empowered, can rule the world.