Bolstering cross-border security: Strengthening the capacities of the Moldovan and Romanian Police's Special Actions Units

Programme 2021 - 2027 Interreg VI-A NEXT Romania - Rep.Moldova

Date of latest update: 2026-08-06

Description

Description (EN):

The SAFEBORDER project addresses critical security challenges in the cross-border region between Romania and the Republic of Moldova, exacerbated by increased criminal activities such as organized crime, drug smuggling, human trafficking, and the security implications of the conflict between Russia and Ukraine. The insufficient coordination between Moldovan and Romanian police, the lack of adequate capabilities for the special intervention units, and the need for enhanced preparedness pose significant threats to the region. The project's objective is to enhance the security, stability, and well-being of the communities in Iași County, Romania, and the Republic of Moldova. By tackling coordination gaps, strengthening capacities, and fostering collaboration between law enforcement agencies, the project seeks to address criminal activities and safeguard the integrity of both countries' territories. The SAFEBORDER project proposes a holistic, collaborative, and technologically advanced approach to enhance the collaboration between the Moldovan and Romanian Police's Special Actions Units. The project aligns with the European Neighbourhood Policy and the Eastern Partnership by promoting the convergence of Moldovan police standards with EU practices in interventions and special actions. It facilitates information exchange between Moldova and Romania, supporting broader EU goals of regional stability and security. The main outputs of the project are related to the improved capabilities of Moldovan and Romanian Police Special Actions Units, through cutting-edge technology, joint development strategies, and comprehensive training, ensuring effective responses to complex and high-risk situations. Moreover, the project is focusing on strengthening the response mechanism, therefore a common action plan for interventions and special actions will be developed, emphasizing systematic and coordinated approaches to transnational challenges. Additionally, the coordination and collaboration between the Moldovan and Romanian law enforcement agencies will be improved through the development of common standards, sharing best practices, and conducting joint training and exercises. The project is designed to have a cross-border/transnational approach due to the transboundary nature of criminal activities and the shared security challenges faced by Romania and the Republic of Moldova. A collaborative strategy is essential to address these threats effectively and create a unified front against organized crime, terrorism, and other security risks. Criminal activities, terrorism, and illicit operations transcend national borders, necessitating a coordinated approach for effective response and prevention. SAFEBORDER introduces innovative solutions by focusing on the specialized needs of cross-border security. The project goes beyond traditional approaches by not only addressing intervention capacities but also emphasizing collaboration, joint training, and the development of a joint action plan. This holistic approach ensures a comprehensive and sustainable improvement in the security landscape of the region. The project addresses immediate challenges and creates a framework for future collaborations, enhancing the region's security measures.

Actual Achievements (EN):

During the second reporting period, the SAFEBORDER project achieved a successful transition from preparatory work to concrete operational outcomes, bringing cross-border cooperation between Moldovan and Romanian special intervention units to a new level of maturity. The project was officially launched on 26 January 2026 in Chisinau, through a well-attended start-up conference that brought together key stakeholders from both countries. Beyond its symbolic value, the event served as a practical platform for aligning expectations, confirming implementation arrangements, and hosting the first Steering Committee meeting. This established clear coordination structures and set the direction for all subsequent activities. The undisputed highlight of the reporting period was the joint simulation exercise conducted on 11-12 March 2026 in Chisinau and Ungheni. This complex, two-day operation involved approximately 200 law enforcement and emergency responders from both sides of the border, including specialised police units, local police, border police, and emergency services. The scenario simulated a high-risk cross-border incident involving armed robbery, hostage-taking, and an escape attempt. Participating units tested real-time coordination, command structures, joint intervention capabilities, negotiation protocols, and cross-border communication channels. Over 100 civilians, including approximately 40 minors, acted as hostages, adding realism and complexity. The exercise was followed by a thorough debriefing session, generating valuable lessons learned that will shape future project activities. Beyond the operational achievements, the project made significant progress on its investment component. The technical documentation for modernising the hand-to-hand combat and tactical intervention training facility in Chisinau was finalised, the construction permit was obtained, and procurement procedures for both works and equipment were launched. These steps lay the foundation for a sustainable, modern training infrastructure that will serve both Moldovan and Romanian units for years to come. Communication and visibility actions accompanied every major activity. The start-up conference and the joint exercise generated extensive national and cross-border media coverage, including five national TV channels, live radio broadcasts, and online platforms. Notably, the coverage included sign language interpretation, ensuring accessibility for persons with hearing impairments – a concrete demonstration of the project's commitment to inclusion. A roll-up banner compliant with Interreg visibility rules was displayed during all events. It is worth noting the Romanian partner, IPJ Iași, which actively participated in all key activities, including the conference, the Steering Committee meetings and the joint exercise. Although its financial implementation was affected by delays in the approval of the national state budget – a situation independent of the will of the partners – the partner ensured continuous operational involvement and coordination, thus contributing to the overall progress. The added value of cross-border cooperation is already visible. The joint exercise demonstrated that Moldovan and Romanian units can operate together effectively in high-risk scenarios, overcoming language, procedural, and command differences. The mutual trust built during this period is intangible but invaluable. The Steering Committee functioned as an effective governance mechanism, addressing challenges transparently and agreeing on mitigation measures without compromising project objectives. In summary, the reporting period delivered a successful launch, a complex joint exercise, tangible investment progress, and broad public visibility. The foundations for achieving the project's specific objective – enhanced border security through strengthened cooperation and increased intervention capacity – are now firmly in place. The remaining activities, including joint trainings, workshops for developing a common action plan, and the finalisation of investments, are well prepared for the next reporting period.

Project outputs: Participations in joint cross-border actions (EN)
Joint action plan developed(EN)

Thematic information

Safety Cooperation between emergency services Community integration and common identity

Priority: (VI-A_Ro-Mo_3b) Cooperation across borders

Priority specific objective: ISO7.1. Border management infrastructure

Priority policy objective (Interreg specific objective): PO7 (ISO2) A safer and more secure Europe

Type of intervention: 174 Interreg: border crossing management and mobility and migration management

Partners (2)

Lead Partner: BRIGADA DE POLIȚIE CU DESTINAȚIE SPECIALĂ ,,FULGER”

PIC (Participant Identification Code): 880172763

Partner’s ID if not PIC: 1006601000646

Department: Special Destination Police Brigade "Fulger"

Address: Mesager, MD2069 Chisinau, Moldova

Department address: Mesager, MD2069 Chisinau, Moldova

Legal status: public

Organisation type: National public authority

Website: http://www.politia.md

Total budget: EUR 336 639.10

Partner’s programme co-financing: EUR 302 975.19

Partner’s programme co-financing rate: 90.00%

Partner contribution: EUR 33 663.91

Contractors:

Name: MODERN AUDIT S.R.L.
VAT registration or tax identification number: 1004600023811
Name: MASSIVE PROJECT SRL
VAT registration or tax identification number: 0

INSPECTORATUL DE POLIȚIE JUDEȚEAN IAȘI

Name: INSPECTORATUL DE POLIȚIE JUDEȚEAN IAȘI

Department: Special Actions Service

PIC (Participant Identification Code): 893887690

Partner’s ID if not PIC: N/A | 4541831 | Fiscal registration code according to the fiscal registration certificate (A series, no. 0784301) (EN)

Address: Prof. Mihai Costăchescu, 700495 Iași, Romania

Department address: Prof. Mihai Costăchescu, 700495 Iași, Romania

Legal status: public

Organisation type: Other

Website: https://is.politiaromana.ro/

Total budget: EUR 329 997.50

Partner’s programme co-financing: EUR 296 997.75

Partner’s programme co-financing rate: 90.00%

Partner contribution: EUR 32 999.75

Partners map

Partners and Projects info

IASI COUNTY POLICE INSPECTORATE

Bolstering cross-border security: Strengthening the capacities of the Moldovan and Romanian Police's Special Actions Units

Partners and Projects info

Special Destination Police Brigade "Fulger"

Bolstering cross-border security: Strengthening the capacities of the Moldovan and Romanian Police's Special Actions Units

Lead partner

Project partner

Summary

Project name (EN): Bolstering cross-border security: Strengthening the capacities of the Moldovan and Romanian Police's Special Actions Units

Project acronym: SAFEBORDER

Project ID: ROMD00163

Project start date: 2025-07-18

Project end date: 2027-07-17

Project status: ongoing

Relevant linked projects:

Enhancing cross border cooperation through developing a common concept of complex crime scene investigation, EMS-ENI code:2SOFT/4.3/142, implemented between 08.09.2020-07.12.2022, within the framework of the Joint Operational Programme Romania-Republic of Moldova 2014-2020 (EN) | The proposed approach complements the project "Enhancing cross border cooperation through developing a common concept of complex crime scene investigation", successfully implemented by the project partners. The project objective was focused on increasing the capacity and efficiency of Romanian and Moldovan police in crime scene investigations and management of evidence of crimes. The most important implemented activities were the development of a common concept of crime scene investigation, through an in-house developed software and the endowment of the 2 forensic structures with state-of- the-art equipment. The project results conducted to an increased operational and technical capacity of the two police units and strengthened cross-border police cooperation.
The synergies between the current project and the previous one indicates a strategic and progressive approach to cross-border cooperation. The current project continues the joint initiatives of the partners in combatting cross-border crimes, demonstrating a commitment to building on the achievements, experience, and insights gained. The new initiative is designed to address a wider spectrum of challenges in border regions, showcasing the evolution of the partnership between Romanian and Moldovan police.
By strategically linking the two projects, there is an acknowledgment of the long-term impact of sustained collaboration, demonstrating a deliberate and strategic approach to building enduring capacities for addressing cross-border challenges. This initiative reflects a commitment to continuous improvement and a more comprehensive perspective on enhancing cross-border collaboration as well as an enhanced border management. (EN), Strengthening the capacities of the Moldovan and Romanian Police in the field of crime prevention, including trans-border crimes, EMS-ENI code:2SOFT/4.3/160, implemented between 12.06.2020-11.12.2022, within the framework of the Joint Operational Programme Romania-Republic of Moldova 2014-2020 (EN) | The experience gained in the previous project in strengthening cross-¬border cooperation between Moldovan and Romanian police will be leveraged. The relationships and networks established during the previous project will provide a foundation for more effective collaboration in the "SAFEBORDER" project. The knowledge and skills acquired by the project team members will be carried over to the current project, thus ensuring that the expertise developed in the previous project will contribute to the success of the "SAFEBORDER" project.
The insights on best practices in crime prevention acquired in the previous project were incorporated into the design and planning of the "SAFEBORDER" project. (EN), Regional cooperation for prevention and combatting trans-border criminality in Romania and Republic of Moldova, EMS-ENI code:THOR/4.3/1, implemented between 29.06.2019-28.12.2023, within the framework of the Joint Operational Programme Romania-Republic of Moldova 2014-2020 (EN) | The project follows a process that began in 2019 with the assistance provided for the operationalization of a collaborative platform between the Romanian and Moldovan Police. The collaborative platform will be used to exchange information that will support and complement the current project and will contribute to the efficiency of special actions police units. The relationships and networks established during the previous project will provide a foundation for more effective collaboration in the "SAFEBORDER" project.
Additionally, the "SAFEBORDER" project will further build on the community engagement and awareness activities started within the project THOR. Continued community involvement will ensure ongoing support for law enforcement initiatives and will enhance public awareness of the importance of cross-border cooperation. (EN), Project "Strengthening the community-police partnership, improving intervention tactics and training methods of police officers and enhancing the capabilities of the General Police Inspectorate in investigating financial crime", funded by the Government of the Kingdom of Sweden (2017-2020) (EN) | One of the components of the project focused on enhancing intervention tactics and training methods for the police force. As part of this initiative, a curriculum on basic tactics was developed. The new project on the modernization of a training room for hand-to-hand combat and tactical intervention for the police can benefit from several synergies with the previous project.
One key synergy lies in the integration of the curriculum on basic tactics developed in the previous project. The foundational knowledge and skills imparted through this curriculum can serve as a solid framework for further training in hand-to-hand combat and tactical intervention. By building upon the existing curriculum, the new project can ensure continuity and coherence in training methods.
The modernization of the training room can leverage the enhanced intervention tactics developed in the previous project. These tactics may encompass a range of strategies, including de-escalation techniques, use of force protocols, and situational awareness. By incorporating these proven tactics into the new training room, law enforcement officers can benefit from a comprehensive approach to tactical intervention.
The new project can also benefit from insights gained during the development and implementation of the basic tactics curriculum. Understanding specific training needs, learning styles, and operational challenges encountered by law enforcement officers informs the design and customization of the modernized training room. This tailored approach ensures that the facility meets the precise requirements for effective hand-to-hand combat and tactical intervention training
In conclusion, the new project can build upon the foundation laid by its predecessor to create an advanced and effective training environment for law enforcement officers. (EN), Joint Operations: Collaboration between Moldovan and Romanian Police Special Action Units (2018-Present) (EN) | In the period spanning from 2018 to the present, the Special Actions Units of the Moldovan and Romanian Police collaboratively engaged in various joint initiatives, as follows:
November 5-9, 2018: Exchange of Experience
A delegation from IPJ Iași participated in an experience-sharing event at the headquarters of the "Fulger" Special Police Brigade. The primary objective was to standardize intervention tactics, focusing on action modes, and enhancing the operational capabilities of both police entities.
September 29-30, 2022: "Black Beret" Test
Representatives from the Iasi County Police Inspectorate - Special Actions Service took part in the "Black Beret" test organized by the "Fulger" Special Purpose Police Brigade of the General Police Inspectorate of the Republic of Moldova. The event featured trials aimed at evaluating participants' professional skills, including endurance in extreme conditions and the ability to respond effectively to interventions. The overarching goal was to fortify the operational capacities of the troops through rigorous physical and combat training.
August 17-18, 2023: "Sniper Cup" Competition
In this timeframe, a delegation from IPJ Iași participated in the "Sniper Cup" competition organized by the "Fulger" Special Purpose Police Brigade. The event provided a platform for showcasing and honing sniper skills within a competitive setting.
May 7-11, 2023: Training Course
A delegation from the General Police Inspectorate of the Republic of Moldova - "Fulger" Special Purpose Police Brigade engaged in a training course organized by the Iași County Police Inspectorate - Special Actions Service. This program aimed to facilitate the training and enhancement of intervention capabilities for independent, supportive, or collaborative activities with other units. It fostered an environment for exchanging experiences, sharing best practices in intervention tactics, and transferring knowledge and lessons learned. (EN)

Total budget/expenditure: EUR 666 636.60

Total EU funding (amount): EUR 599 972.94

Total EU funding (co-financing rate): 90.00%

Co-financing sources:

Investments, deliverables, policy contributions

(bullets are inserted automatically and may be incorrectly placed)

Infrastructure investments:

I1.1 - Modernization of a training room (LP1) - EUR 198 000.00 - country: Moldova (MD), town: CHISINAU, street: Mesager, 5/5, postal_code: MD2069, Chișinău municipality (MD10), Chișinău municipality (MD100)

Deliverables:

Start-up conference - LP1
Close-up conference - PP2
Press releases disseminated - LP1, PP2
Information activity organized - LP1
Electronic photo portfolio - LP1, PP2
Visibility materials (150 sets of visibility items, set of stickers and 1 roll-up banner) - LP1
Visibility materials (150 sets of visibility items, set of stickers,1 roll-up banner,plaque) - PP2
TV show - LP1
Display durable plaque - LP1
Workshop report for the event organized in the Romania - PP2
Workshop report for the event organised in the Republic of Moldova - LP1
Common action plan developed - LP1
Report for the joint training organised in Romania - PP2
Attendance list for 25 participants at the first joint training- PP2
Report for the joint training organised in the Republic of Moldova - LP1
Attendance list for 25 participants at the second joint training - LP1
Report for the joint simulation exercise organized in Republic of Moldova - LP1
Attendance list for 30 participants at the first simulation exercise - LP1
Report for the joint simulation exercise organized in Romania - PP2
Attendance list for 30 participants at the first simulation exercise - PP2
Technical documentation
Equipment for operationalizing the training room
0ne hand-to-hand combat and tactical intervention training room modernized in Republic of Moldova
2 specialised mobile units for rapid intervention missions
Vehicle for quick intervention in hard-to-reach places
Robot target - 3D silhouette for remote control training (autonomous robot for live fire training)
1 portable video camera for police and security inspection
Specialised protective tactical equipment for intervention

Contribution to wider strategies and policies:

EUStrategyDanubeRegion The project proposed by BPDS "Fulger" of the Republic of Moldova and the Iasi County Police Inspectorate from Romania is in line with the EU Strategy for the Danube Region (EUSDR).
Focusing on bilateral collaboration between two nations, it supports the EUSDR approach for a robust governance system that works at both macro and micro levels. The Joint Intervention Undertaking and common resources underline the essence of European integration, where nations tackle common challenges collaboratively.
The proposal's recognition of the crisis triggered by the war in Ukraine shows a sensitivity to local dynamics, underlining the EUSDR's emphasis on understanding and addressing regional specificities. The emphasis on rapid response mechanisms, facilitated by the purchase of specialized equipment for tactical intervention reflects EUSDR's commitment to regional speed and security.
In addition, the project's focus on training sessions for police officers reflect the EUSDR's emphasis on field-level engagement and solutions. The various equipment purchases ensure a comprehensive approach to crime detection, reflecting EUSDR's focus on various priority areas.
By setting clear objectives and expectations, the project is able to bridge the gap between wider European discussions and localised challenges. In essence, the initiative of the project partners is a demonstration of how regional actions can contribute significantly to overall European strategies and policies, ensuring both regional security and alignment with wider European objectives.
Other The project contributes directly to the Romanian National Strategy for Public Order and Safety 2023-2027,General Objective 1 Increase public safety and protection of the citizen; Specific Objective 1.9 Increasing the effectiveness of activities to prevent and combat itinerant crime; General Objective 4 Developing and strengthening national and international cooperation in the field of public order and security; Specific Objectives 4.1. Enhancing the exchange of information and best practices, common working procedures at intra- and inter-institutional level; 4.2 Enhancing the exchange of information and best practices, common working procedures at international level; General Objective 5 Developing the administrative and operational capacity of the structures/institutions of the Ministry of Internal Affairs in order to ensure optimal and uninterrupted provision of essential services in the field of public order and security.
The project activities contribute directly to the abovementioned objectives both through hard measures such as purchase of state-of-the-art equipment for law enforcement, but also through soft measures such as exchange of expertise, trainings and exercises.
Other The project directly supports the EU Security Union Strategy, strategic priority 2. Tackling evolving threats which states that Law enforcement and justice practitioners need to adapt to new technology. Technological developments and emerging threats require law enforcement authorities to have access to new tools, acquire new skills, and develop alternative investigative techniques ; strategic priority 3. Protecting Europeans from terrorism and organised crime and strategic priority 4. A strong European security ecosystem which highlight the need for cooperation and information exchange.
Al the above priorities will be supported by enhancement of the capacities of the police in Romania and Republic of Moldova, as well as supporting their cooperation in the cross-border area.
SeaBasinStrategyBlackSea The proposed project focuses on strengthening bilateral cooperation to combat cross-border crime. This initiative, while focusing primarily on law enforcement and new specialised and effective training and therefore efficient and safe intervention in border areas, has notable intersections with the EU strategy and policies for the Common Maritime Agenda for the Black Sea (CMA).
Strengthening the law enforcement capabilities of the countries around the Black Sea can directly influence the stability and security of the region. A secure Black Sea region indirectly supports the objectives of a sustainable blue economy as outlined in the GCA. Increased border security can reduce activities that could have a negative impact on the environment, such as illegal fishing or smuggling of dangerous substances. This, in turn, protects the maritime environment, which is central to the objectives of the WFS.
In addition, by ensuring a safer environment, blue economy sectors such as tourism, fisheries and maritime transport can grow. The presence of modern policing equipment indicates a move towards scientific and evidence-based approaches to law enforcement. This reflects the CMA's emphasis on science-based decision-making, even though the project does not directly address environmental conservation.
In addition, tackling transboundary crime can stimulate economic growth by creating a more stable trading environment. The training sessions highlighted in the project focus on sustainable integration into existing law enforcement systems, ensuring that the initiative not only provides short-term solutions but also long-term benefits.
Other The project contributes directly to the implementation of the Public Order and Security Programme of the Republic of Moldova for the years 2022-2025, in particular to the following objectives: 1) Ensuring a professional, efficient and rapid response to specific challenges, 2) Improving the rapid response capacity of the public order and security services, 3) Modernizing the infrastructure and equipment of the public order and security services in the security zone, 4) Developing the integrated capabilities of the police forces to intervene in public events, with respect for human rights.
Other The project directly supports the implementation of the National Action Plan for the Accession of the Republic of Moldova to the European Union for the years 2024-2027, which has passed all endorsements and will be approved shortly, namely Chapter 24 - Justice, Freedom, Security: 1) Development of new law enforcement cooperation mechanisms capable of managing the increase in transnational crime in the new security context, including the creation of an advanced EU operational axis in Chisinau for synchronised approaches in the field of internal affairs. 2)Enhance mutual transfer of knowledge and expertise between the EU and the Republic of Moldova in order to prepare and execute joint operational and tactical missions in a stable and effortless manner, 3)Develop inter-institutional, regional and international cooperation to prevent and combat terrorism, 4)Further exchange of information with partner institutions / counterparts in other states on preventing and combating terrorism, 5)Exchange of information with partner special services on specific cases and situations according to established procedures, 6)Procurement of specialised non-offensive security and protection equipment for use in forced return actions

Deliverable (other than infrastructural investment) areas:

România (RO), Iasi, Prof. Mihai Costăchescu, 2, 700495

Programme Common Output Indicator:

RCO 083 - Strategies and action plans jointly developed, Measurement unit:
RCO 081 - Participations in joint actions across borders, Measurement unit:

Delivered output indicator(s):

(RCO81) Participations in joint actions across borders: 43.0

Programme Common Result Indicator:

RCR 085 - Participations in joint actions across borders after project completion, Measurement unit:
RCR 079 - Joint strategies and action plans taken up by organisations, Measurement unit:

Project part of European Union Macro-Regional or Sea Basin Strategy: EUSDR

Information regarding the data in keep.eu on the programme financing this project

Financing programme

2021 - 2027 Interreg VI-A NEXT Romania - Rep.Moldova

Latest month of project-partner-call data publication

2026-08

No. of projects in keep.eu / Total no. of projects (% of projects in keep.eu)

95 / 95 (100%)

No. of project partnerships in keep.eu / Total no. of project partnerships (% of project partnerships in keep.eu)

241 / 241 (100%)

Notes on the data

There are discrepancies in this programme's financial data in keep.eu. Namely, in one or more cases, the sum of the project partners' budgets exceeds the total budget of the respective project. Interact is working with the Programme to correct those figures.

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Bolstering cross-border security: Strengthening the capacities of the Moldovan and Romanian Police's Special Actions Units

Description

Thematic information

Partners (2)

Partners map

Summary

Investments, deliverables, policy contributions

Information regarding the data in keep.eu on the programme financing this project

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