The Dominican Republic is hosting international police delegations and sports officials for the IV World Police Games (USIP) 2026, which officially run from October 26 to October 30 in Santo Domingo. The event brings together law enforcement personnel from across the globe to compete in a variety of athletic disciplines while promoting international cooperation and institutional ties.
Arrival of International Delegations
Throughout the weekend of October 24 and 25, delegations from multiple nations arrived at Las Américas International Airport in Santo Domingo and Punta Cana International Airport. Representatives from Peru, Cambodia, Bolivia, Guatemala, Venezuela, Curazao, San Martín, Aruba, Colombia, the United States, Belize, and Saudi Arabia have confirmed their participation.
The composition of these teams reflects the diverse nature of the games. Cambodia has sent 13 athletes led by Lieutenant General Yith Phireak, who are scheduled to compete in judo, swimming, and beach volleyball. Guatemala’s 21-member delegation is registered for basketball, athletics, swimming, and IPSC practical shooting. Other nations have focused their efforts on specific disciplines: Venezuela will compete in 3×3 basketball, while teams from Peru and Bolivia are set to participate in IPSC practical shooting.
International Police Authorities Meet at the Games
Beyond the athletic competition, the games serve as a venue for high-level meetings between international police authorities. The event has drawn key leadership from the International Police Sports Union (USIP). General Mohamed Al-Dhaheri, president of the USIP and the Administrative Council of the Police Sports Federation of the Emirati Ministry of Interior, is currently in the country leading the delegation from the United Arab Emirates.
The organization is strengthened by the arrival of Luc Smeyers, a commissioner of the Belgian Police and vice president of the USIP, who is participating in the event’s official activities. Saudi Arabia is also represented by a delegation headed by Brigadier General Ahmad Abdullah A. Al Maiman. These officials are working alongside the Dominican National Police, which is participating in the coordination and support for the development of this competition, including logistics, housing, and coordination for the visiting teams.
Athletes Compete in Multi-Sport Program Through October 30
The IV World Police Games feature a multi-sport program designed to test the physical conditioning and tactical skills of police officers. Competition is scheduled to continue through October 30, with athletes participating in the following disciplines:
- Judo
- Swimming
- Athletics
- 10-kilometer run
- Golf
- Beach volleyball
- 3×3 basketball
- IPSC practical shooting
The games are intended to foster integration and mutual respect among international law enforcement agencies through the medium of sport. Following the opening phase of arrivals, the competition schedule moves into its primary phase of events across the designated venues in Santo Domingo.
