A commitment, a culture
When Federal Councillor Beat Jans travelled to Tunisia, fedpol accompanied him. Discreetly, fedpol employees provided close protection for the head of the Federal Department of Justice and Police (FDJP) and coordinated their measures with the local authorities: politics and security go hand in hand.
On 23 May 2024, a delegation from the Federal Department of Justice and Police travels to Tunis for a two-day working visit. After weeks of intense preparation, the safety measures are taking shape. A mission that combines precision, flexibility and coordination. This phase is greatly facilitated by the local fedpol police attaché. He has the advantage of knowing the country, how it works and, above all, has a good network, which is essential for navigating the reality on site and laying the foundations for effective cooperation. This ensures the smooth running of a visit in a complex and unfamiliar environment.
Preparatory phase
As with every commitment, a risk assessment is carried out. In this case, the police attaché shares information on the geopolitical situation, crime, terrorism and demonstrations. What would motivate someone to target a Swiss minister? Everything is scrutinised, and no detail is left to chance. Each location is visited during the reconnaissance phase. Is the Head of Department too exposed on a stroll through the medina? Can he travel down to the sea, which is just a few kilometres from the Tunisian capital? Security measures are adapted to each stage of the programme. From communication tools to logistical coordination, nothing is left to chance.
Operational phase
Let’s go! It all starts on arrival at the airport: reception, convoy, escort. One event after another, with the personal security officer and the police attaché taking part. The host country decides to make an impromptu stop-off? This comes as no surprise to fedpol’s bodyguards. The usual reception venues for foreign VIPs are well known, and fedpol has them on its radar. Every stage is anticipated, every detail fine-tuned. Traffic in Tunis is unpredictable and dense. The team adapts to the hubbub and masters the art of avoidance.
The programme is on track. Between the medina, the souk and the mosque, the Federal Councillor is out among the public. The Tunisian military police provide the official vehicles and the Direction Générale de la Sûreté Nationale is carrying out the established security measures, redoubling its vigilance.
Each decision reflects a careful weighing of the interests at stake: security needs, the expectations of the Federal Councillor and his delegation, and the requirements of the local authorities. Speaking the same language makes this complex equation easier. This protection mission turns out to be a success, based on a combination of flexibility, skills and coordination between all the parties involved. This learning experience underlines the importance of teamwork in demanding environments.
“As a bodyguard, it’s much more than just being vigilant – it’s knowing how to build respect and trust, across cultures. This approach made all the difference during this visit to Tunisia. Adapting, unifying, protecting: mission accomplished.”
Levi*, Commissioner
* Name changed