31 Aug 2009

NZ police role in Aghanistan under consideration

3:22 pm on 31 August 2009

The Government has confirmed that it is considering whether to expand or reduce the NZ police contingent in Afghanistan.

Three senior officers are currently in Afghanistan helping to train the country's police force.

The Government recently approved the return of SAS troops to Afghanistan, with three rotations of up to 70 personnel over 18 months, while announcing its intention to withdraw the Provincial Reconstruction Team from Bamyan province over the next three to five years.

Police Minister Judith Collins is now considering what steps to take in respect of the police contingent.

A spokesperson for her office says no time has been set for a decision to be made.