Overview:
Palau is strengthening its fight against illegal drugs after three local detectives completed advanced narcotics investigation training with the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration in Thailand. The intensive program equips officers with modern tools and strategies to combat emerging drug threats and enhance public safety across the nation.
Three Palauan detectives have returned home after completing an intensive two-week narcotics investigations course offered by the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) at the International Law Enforcement Academy in Thailand. From March 23 to April 3, 2026, Detective Sergeant Lieutenant Sabino Kyota, Jr., Detective Sergeant Vahid Beketaut, and Police Detective Sesario Gibbons joined regional partners to strengthen their skills in combating illegal drugs.
The training equipped participants with practical tools used by modern drug-enforcement teams, including how to identify narcotics, understand concealment methods, track emerging synthetic drug trends, and build strong investigative cases. Detectives also trained in surveillance, interviewing, confidential source management, financial investigations, and operational planning. Safety and emergency first-aid skills were emphasized to ensure officers can respond effectively during critical incidents.
This program strengthens Palau’s initiatives to keep its communities safe and resilient, and the advanced training provided reflects the close cooperation between the United States and Palau in supporting public safety.