Suriname: Expanding the Security Forces

National Intelligence Daily

SURINAME: Expanding the Security Forces Army Commander Bouterse, at a peaceful rally on Thursday, condemned alleged CIA and Dutch efforts to topple his regime and announced plans to increase the size of the security forces. Bouterse claimed that the National Army and Police eventually will number 10,000 рersonnel each and that a Youth Brigade of some 50,000 will be formed.

Comment: Bouterse’s ambitious plans for expanding his security forces probably are designed to deter potential domestic challengers and exile elements, but they are far beyond Suriname’s capabilities. The National Army and Police together number only some 3,000. Moreover, the regime lacks the trained officers and funds that would be needed for any large-scale expansion. The formation of a Youth Brigade would be another effort by Bouterse to increase his popular support.

Date:
July 2, 1983
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