The Cross of the Police Assistants was awarded to Arvo Pan

Arvo Pani donated Police Officer’s Service Cross to Aivar Ojaperv

Arvo Pani, a long-serving school director and current Viru-Nigula municipal official, received the Police Officer’s Service Cross on April 21, 2024, at 17:07. The recognition acknowledged Pani’s 25-year career with the police. Pani stated that while his career did not involve exceptionally extreme incidents, he provided assistance to the police during instances such as catching speeding motorists and intervening in criminal activity.

He attributed the impetus for receiving the cross to his ongoing contact with former Kadrina Constable Olev Tamm, with whom he collaborated frequently due to his work as a teacher. Pani recalled that Tamm initially suggested joining the Police Officer’s Service, leading to Pani’s consideration of the role. Initially, the Police Officer’s Service lacked uniforms and equipment, with the state providing tunics bearing the service’s designation.

Pani’s involvement centered around a cell of approximately eight individuals operating in Kadrina. He noted that the number of police officers in Estonia has fluctuated, reaching 3,000 at its peak and currently standing at around 1,200. Pani’s experience included involvement in events dating back to the Bronze Age, specifically riots.

Police Officers, who are not compensated, receive state-provided equipment and uniforms equivalent to those of regular police officers. Their duties involve patrol work, differing primarily from the lack of authority to process legal matters. Pani highlighted that despite his service, he was primarily a rear guard, involved in supporting operations rather than direct frontline engagement.

The awards ceremony, held at the Estonian National Museum, recognized distinguished Police Officers. President Alar Karis emphasized the importance of citizens’ commitment to protecting freedom within Estonia, stating that the officers’ dedication to community safety reflects the nation’s broader defense capabilities.

Topics: #arvo #police #pani