DHAKA, Aug 12, 2025 (BSS) - Members of Bangladesh Police Women Contingent BANFPU-1, serving in the United Nations Peacekeeping Mission (MONUSCO) in Kinshasa, the capital of the Democratic Republic of the Congo, have been awarded the UN Peacekeeping Medal in recognition of their outstanding contribution. 

The medal was awarded at a ceremony in Kinshasa on Thursday (August 7), said a press release of Bangladesh Police Headquarters here today.

Special Representative of the UN Secretary-General Bintou Keita was present as the chief guest at the ceremony while General Alain Bamenou, Head of the MONUSCO Police Component and Acting Commissioner, was also present. 

Contingent Commander Police Superintendent Kazi Rubaiyat Rumi presided over the ceremony.

A total of 178 peacekeepers were present at the ceremony under the leadership of Police Superintendent Kazi Rubaiyat Rumi, Contingent Commander of BANNFPU-1, Rotation-17. 

Among them, 68 women were awarded the UN Medal.

At the event, 23 Individual Police Officers (IPOs) working in different sections of MONUSCO Kinshasa were jointly awarded the UN Peacekeeping Medal with BAN FPU-1.

In her speech as the chief guest, Bintou Keita highly praised the professionalism, sense of responsibility and discipline of the Bangladesh Police members. 
She expressed special gratitude for the impeccable contribution of the women peacekeepers and mentioned the active participation of women peacekeepers as a unique example of the implementation of the UN mandate on Gender Equality and Women's Empowerment.

General Alain Bamenou highlighted the operational efficiency, public engagement and coordinated activities with the local police of BAN FPU-1. He highlighted the successful implementation of training on public order management, joint patrols, and capacity building.

The parade marshal was Operations Officer Additional Superintendent of Police Tapas Kumar Paul and Parade Commander was Additional Superintendent of Police Nasrin Akhter. 

IPO members and senior MONUSCO officials were present at the event.

The contingent has been performing its duties with great distinction and efficiency since May 27 last year.