Dubai Police may ink deals at Meplex

Dubai Police will lead the charge in spending at the first Middle East Police and Law Enforcement Exhibition and Conference (Meplex) by purchasing a "few million dirhams" worth of equipment.

"We are going to sign contracts with a few companies worth a few million dirhams," said Brigadier Nasser Syed Al Razooqi, assistant commander in chief, operations and supplies, Dubai Police.

At the event, to be held from October 6 to 9, Dubai Police are expected to sign contracts for "some special vehicles" and riot equipment, Brig. Nasser added.

Being held for the first time, Meplex will have more than 80 companies exhibiting, and a conference will be held on the first three days of the event.

The event - which provides the chance for international law enforcement suppliers to meet with police, security and intelligence agencies of the Middle East - is expected to grow each year, said Nick Webb, director, Streamline Marketing - the event's organiser.

"The number of exhibitors we have attracted is very good and it is a positive response," said Webb.

"We are expecting the show to grow each year but I think that this year's show will demonstrate what it is able to do for exhibitors. Then next year, it will be even better."

For the past year, Dubai Police have been working with the event's organisers to coordinate live demonstrations for those attending the event.

Yesterday, the police held a preview session including demonstrations of search and secure enactments, anti-hijacking and hostage rescue simulations, armed and unarmed self defence techniques, advanced police driving, and crowd control.

The group also showed its VIP protection drills and responses to attacks on motorcades, while riot officers enacted the use of riot shields and water canons, and the snatching of ringleaders from crowds.