For the first time in the Ministry of Interior history eight policewomen have started to work at the Operations Room. After training they have been assigned to handle rescue calls on 999.

The Deputy Chief of Public Security Brigadier Mubarak bin Daina told the 'Amen' magazine, published by the Police Media Directorate at the Ministry of Interior this month, that four policewomen each were working in the morning and evening shifts.

He said that after evaluating the work of the eight policewomen, the move would be followed by the assignment of women to work in police patrols.

The Deputy Chief said that earlier the Operations Room staff was restricted to only men but women were included because of their experience and competence to handle the assigned tasks.

 He said the new duties for women come as a move to appreciate the work of the women police force formed in the 1970s.

Assistant Chief of Public Security for Operations and Training Colonel Yousif Buali said that the eight policewomen had started to work with the assistance of their male colleagues, but after a certain period were able to handle their duties on their own. He said that the women have been assigned to answer calls on 999 and refer them to he departments concerned. At present they do not handle accidents.