NCJ Number
127428
Journal
International Journal of Comparative and Applied Criminal Justice Volume: 14 Issue: 1-2 Dated: (Spring/Winter 1990) Pages: 133-144
Date Published
1990
Length
12 pages
Annotation
This article describes the function of a special detachment of the Federal Border Guard (FBG) of the Federal Republic of Germany (FRG), the GSG9 (Group 9), in the battle against terrorism.
Abstract
While the majority of the 20,000 FBG police officers perform assignments of undercover seizures against single perpetrators, the 200-man GSG9 force performs the special assignment of combating militant groups to protect or save human life. The GSG9 consists of headquarters, a communication and documentation unit, three combat units, an engineer unit with three teams, a training unit, helicopters, and logistical services. Suitability of the volunteer candidate is tested in a 3-day selection process at headquarters. A 3-month basic training and advance weapons and target training is followed by a 5-month special training covering criminology, psychology, law, communication with criminals, weapon technology, explosives expertise, and sport such as martial arts and close fighting. The GSG9 has demonstrated successful action in conjunction with other State police units requiring extra help and support because of their limitations.