Patrolling for peace in UN buffer zone

Missing his family

Although his family was at first hesitant about his decision to become a UN police officer, they eventually supported him going to Cyprus. Lan left behind two sons, ages 5 and 13, and elderly relatives in poor health.

He booked a flight home for a holiday in January last year, but the COVID-19 situation in China was quite severe.

He eventually abandoned his holiday plans as he was worried he might not be able to make it back to the peacekeeping mission.

"I promised my children I would go back and celebrate Spring Festival with them, I do miss my family. I've never left home for two years before. My longest business trip in China was only a few months," he said.

"However, as a UN police officer and also a Chinese police officer, I must be rational. My philosophy differs from that of my colleagues from other countries. As long as I work here, I will prioritize my work, rather than ignoring my responsibility just because of a vacation."

On patrol

Lan lives in a local community, works from 7 am to 5 pm, and cooks for himself.

In some joint operations such as combating illegal hunting, smuggling and immigration, he needs to get up earlier. He also has to be on duty 24 hours to answer phone enquiries. To avoid COVID-19 infection, the patrol cars operate in pairs with only one occupant per vehicle. The buffer zone is patrolled at least once a day, with each trip lasting several hours.

Night patrols are more challenging, as there are no street lights to guide the police officers through rugged terrain. "Only the stars and the moon accompany us on the night patrol. The routes among the mountains are narrow and dangerous. On one side of the road is an abyss and any carelessness could have serious consequences," he said.

In summer, the temperature can hit 45 C, and in winter heavy rain can wash away roads and bridges, making the patrol more difficult.

"I am proud to be part of the peacekeeping work and promote a country's peace process," Lan said. "The pandemic and other difficulties cannot deter me and I will shoulder my responsibilities for the rest of my stay."