The International Organization for Migration (IOM) donated Thursday 24 new vehicles to Macedonia's Border Police for strengthening of its capacities in the management of the refugee-migrant crisis.

Minister of Interior Mitko Cavkov, Deputy-Miniter Agim Nuhiu and Public Security Bureau director Gorance Savovski attended the handover of the donation worth about EUR 700,000.

"It did not even cross our minds that the refugee crisis problems would end through the closure of the Balkan refugee route. Our assessments showed that organized criminal groups from Macedonia and abroad would emerge. Such developments have materialized, but we are successful in preventing this activity and returning illegal migrants", said Minister Cavkov and thanked EU, Visegrad Group states, IOM and NGOs for their support in the process.

He added that EU and the Czech Republic would also provide donations to the Border Police, ultimately resulting in about 100 vehicles for diverse uses at its disposal.

IOM Macedonia Office manager Sonja Bozinovska said the vehicles would significantly contribute to the Border Police capacity strengthening in managing the complex migrant situation.

"IOM has also donated equipment for capacity support in registration of migrants, equipping transit reception centers, equipment for the medical sector, but also rehabilitation of hospitals in Gevgelija and Kumanovo", stressed Bozinovska.

In addition, IOM has provided training for members of the Border Police and other relevant entities involved in the identification and assistance for migrants.