INTCIPOL | The International Police Law Enforcement Commission

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Financial crime investigators and prosecutors collaborate on latest money laundering threats

Today marks the conclusion of a three-day meeting of more than 1,400 anti-money laundering investigators and prosecutors from across Canada’s public sector, as well as representatives from the United States. The annual gathering aims to build a greater common understanding of the latest financial crime threats and tactics. This year’s meeting builds on recent actions the Government of Canada has taken through its $1.3 billion Border Plan to ramp up efforts to combat organized crime, fentanyl trafficking and money laundering. This includes Canada’s newly appointed Fentanyl Czar; a Canada-United States Joint Strike Force; an intelligence directive on organized crime and fentanyl, backed up by $200 million to increase law enforcement’s information sharing capacity; the listing of seven transnational criminal organizations largely responsible for fentanyl pouring into our communities; and the launch of a new intelligence partnership made up of key players from Canada’s big banks and law enforcement. Discussions centered on current money laundering schemes used by organized crime, including crypto- and Artificial Intelligence (AI)-enabled fraud and trade-based money laundering, as well as asset recovery and prevention. Participants also updated on key enforcement actions, legal proceedings and emerging trends in their respective jurisdictions. Supporting enhanced collaboration and permissible information-sharing across law enforcement agencies, prosecutorial services, financial institutions and high-risk businesses is integral to the government’s plan to bolster its response to money laundering and organized crime, strike back against the illegal fentanyl trade and bring perpetrators to justice. To conclude the meeting, government officials reiterated Canada’s intention to use its 2025 G7 Presidency to highlight the threats from illicit finance and propose the development of a call to action by the G7 Finance Ministers to address criminal activity that impacts the financial sector and national security.

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Nearly 20,000 animals seized in global wildlife trafficking crackdown

Nearly 20,000 threatened and protected animals were rescued in a global policing operation coordinated by Interpol at the end of 2024. The campaign, Operation Thunder, involved law enforcement agencies in 138 countries and targeted six transnational criminal groups. Officials made hundreds of arrests and seized thousands of birds, turtles and other reptiles, primates, big cats and pangolins.   Big cats, birds, primates and pangolins were among the nearly 20,000 threatened or protected animals rescued in a recent global operation against wildlife and forestry traffickers. Led by Interpol and the World Customs Organization (WCO), the campaign, called Operation Thunder 2024, involved police, customs, border patrol, forestry and wildlife officials from 138 countries and regions. Six transnational criminal networks suspected of trafficking animals and plants protected by the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES) were identified, with 365 arrests made, the agencies announced on Feb. 4. The live animals seized were 12,427 birds, 5,877 turtles, 1,731 other reptiles, 33 primates, 18 big cats and 12 pangolins. Significant seizures included 6,500 songbirds discovered in Turkey during a vehicle inspection at the Syrian border, and 5,193 red-eared ornamental slider turtles hidden in passenger suitcases arriving from Malaysia at India’s Chennai International Airport.   “Organized crime networks are profiting from the demand for rare plants and animals, exploiting nature to fuel human greed,” said Interpol secretary-general Valdecy Urquiza. “This has far-reaching consequences: it drives biodiversity loss, destroys communities, contributes to climate change and even fuels conflict and instability.” Wildlife crime is estimated to be worth up to 17 billion pounds ($21 billion) annually worldwide, making it the fourth-largest international crime, after weapons, drugs and human trafficking, according to Interpol. A total of 2,213 seizures were made worldwide during Operation Thunder 2024, which ran from Nov. 11 to Dec. 6 last year, Interpol and the WCO said in a joint press statement. Authorities identified more than 100 companies involved in trafficking protected species, they added. Where possible, wildlife forensic experts collected DNA samples before transferring the recovered animals to conservation centers. These samples are often key evidence in prosecutions, but also can shed light on trafficking routes and trends.

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Financial Crime Investigations

Project Situation Criminal enterprises, including human trafficking and drug smuggling, rely on illegal financial transactions to fund their operations. These transactions often involve money laundering, illicit money transfers, and the use of shell companies to hide profits. Project Aims To track and disrupt the financial networks that fuel criminal enterprises. To freeze and seize assets linked to illegal activities. To strengthen financial intelligence sharing among law enforcement agencies and financial institutions. Project Activities Financial Intelligence Gathering: The CID’s Financial Crime Unit works closely with banks, financial institutions, and regulatory bodies to identify and report suspicious transactions. This includes monitoring remittance services, cryptocurrency transactions, and shell companies. Asset Freezing and Seizure: IPLEC supports law enforcement agencies in freezing and seizing assets linked to criminal activities. This disrupts the financial infrastructure of criminal networks and prevents them from funding further operations. Task Force Operations: IPLEC has established a dedicated task force to investigate and prosecute money laundering activities. This task force collaborates with international partners to track cross-border financial flows and bring perpetrators to justice. Training and Workshops: IPLEC conducts workshops to train law enforcement officials, financial investigators, and prosecutors in financial crime investigation techniques.

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Cybercrime Investigations

Project Situation The rise of cyber-enabled crimes, including hacking, online fraud, and cyber-enabled human trafficking, poses significant challenges to law enforcement. Criminals increasingly use the internet and encrypted communication channels to coordinate illegal activities, making traditional investigative methods less effective. Project Aims To investigate and dismantle cybercrime networks operating across borders. To enhance the technical capabilities of law enforcement agencies in cyber investigations. To collaborate with technology companies and international partners to combat online criminal activities. Project Activities Cyber Intelligence Operations: The CID’s Cybercrime Unit uses advanced tools to monitor and analyze online activities, including social media platforms, encrypted messaging apps, and dark web forums. Joint Operations: IPLEC collaborates with international cybercrime units to conduct joint operations targeting cybercriminals. These operations often result in the arrest of key suspects and the dismantling of criminal infrastructure. Digital Forensics Training: The CID provides specialized training to law enforcement officials in digital forensics, cyber intelligence, and online investigation techniques. Public-Private Partnerships: IPLEC works with technology companies, social media

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Advanced Forensic Investigations

Project Situation Forensic science plays a pivotal role in solving crimes, from identifying suspects to linking evidence to criminal activities. However, many law enforcement agencies lack access to advanced forensic tools and expertise, hindering their ability to solve complex cases. Project Aims To utilize forensic techniques for solving high-profile and transnational crimes. To enhance the forensic capabilities of law enforcement agencies worldwide through training and resource sharing. To establish standardized forensic practices for evidence collection, analysis, and presentation in court. Project Activities Deploying Advanced Forensic Tools: The CID employs state-of-the-art forensic technologies, including DNA analysis, fingerprint matching, ballistics, and digital forensics, to gather and analyze evidence. Training and Capacity Building: IPLEC conducts specialized training programs for law enforcement officials on forensic science techniques, crime scene investigation, and evidence handling. Global Forensic Collaboration: The CID collaborates with international forensic laboratories and experts to share knowledge, best practices, and resources. Research and Development: IPLEC supports research in emerging forensic technologies, such as AI-driven evidence analysis and advanced DNA profiling, to stay ahead of criminal tactics.

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Anti-Money Laundering Cell

Project Situation Human trafficking operations rely heavily on illegal financial transactions, with payments often made through unregulated or covert channels. These transactions are used to fund criminal activities, pay off accomplices, and launder profits. Tracking and disrupting these financial flows is essential for dismantling trafficking networks. Project Aims To monitor and trace illegal money transfers linked to human trafficking and smuggling. To freeze and seize assets of suspected traffickers and smugglers. To strengthen financial intelligence sharing among law enforcement agencies and financial institutions. Project Activities Financial Intelligence Gathering: IPLEC’s Anti-Money Laundering Cell works closely with banks, financial institutions, and regulatory bodies to identify and report suspicious transactions. This includes monitoring remittance services, cryptocurrency transactions, and shell companies. Asset Freezing and Seizure: IPLEC supports law enforcement agencies in freezing and seizing assets linked to human trafficking and smuggling. This disrupts the financial infrastructure of criminal networks and prevents them from funding further operations. Task Force Operations: IPLEC has established a dedicated task force to investigate and prosecute money laundering activities. This task force collaborates with international partners to track cross-border financial flows and bring perpetrators to justice. Training and Workshops: IPLEC conducts workshops to train law enforcement officials, financial investigators, and prosecutors in financial crime investigation techniques. These workshops cover topics such as tracking illicit funds, analyzing financial data, and building strong legal cases. Conclusion Through these projects, IPLEC is taking a multi-faceted approach to combat human trafficking and smuggling. By targeting forged documents, cyber communications, and illegal financial flows, we aim to disrupt criminal networks, protect victims, and bring perpetrators to justice. These initiatives reflect IPLEC’s commitment to creating a safer world through innovation, collaboration, and relentless effort.

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Cyber Crime Cell for Human TraffickingProject Situation

The internet has become a primary tool for human traffickers and smugglers, enabling them to coordinate operations, recruit victims, and communicate with clients across borders. Online platforms, including social media, encrypted messaging apps, and dark web forums, are often used to facilitate these crimes. Project Aims To intercept and monitor online communications used by traffickers and smugglers. To dismantle digital networks that facilitate human trafficking and smuggling. To enhance the technical capabilities of law enforcement agencies in cyber investigations. Project Activities Cyber Intelligence Operations: IPLEC’s Cyber Crime Cell uses advanced tools and techniques to track and analyze the online activities of criminal networks. This includes monitoring social media platforms, encrypted messaging apps, and dark web forums. Joint Operations with International Partners: IPLEC collaborates with cybercrime units worldwide to conduct joint operations targeting trafficking networks. These operations often result in the arrest of key suspects and the dismantling of criminal infrastructure. Digital Forensics Training: IPLEC provides specialized training to law enforcement officials in digital forensics, cyber intelligence, and online investigation techniques. This training equips officers with the skills needed to gather digital evidence and prosecute cyber-enabled crimes. Public-Private Partnerships: IPLEC works with technology companies, social media platforms, and financial institutions to identify and disrupt online trafficking activities. These partnerships are critical for staying ahead of evolving cyber threats.

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Forged Documentation Prevention

Project Situation Human traffickers and smugglers frequently use forged documents to facilitate illegal travel and operations. These fraudulent documents, including passports, visas, and identity cards, enable criminals to bypass border controls, exploit vulnerable individuals, and evade law enforcement. The use of forged documentation is a critical enabler of transnational organized crime, making it a top priority for IPLEC (International Policing and Law Enforcement Commission) Project Aims To prevent the creation, distribution, and use of forged travel and identity documents. To enhance the capacity of border control and immigration agencies to detect fraudulent documents. To establish robust systems for evidence collection and prosecution of document forgery cases. Project Activities Advanced Document Verification Systems: IPLEC collaborates with governments and technology providers to implement state-of-the-art document verification tools at border checkpoints and immigration offices. Training and Capacity Building: IPLEC conducts specialized training programs for border control officers, immigration officials, and law enforcement personnel. These programs focus on identifying forged documents, understanding the latest forgery techniques, and collecting admissible evidence for prosecution. Global Document Database: IPLEC is developing a centralized, global database of lost, stolen, and fraudulent documents. This database will enable real-time verification of travel documents, making it harder for criminals to use forged papers. Public Awareness Campaigns: IPLEC works with governments and NGOs to raise awareness about the dangers of forged documents and how they enable human trafficking and smuggling.

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How INTCIPOL is Tackling Cybercrime Worldwide

The digital revolution has brought immense benefits, but it has also given rise to a new breed of criminals. Cybercrime is now one of the most significant threats to global security, costing the world an estimated $10.5 trillion annually by 2025. The International Police Law Enforcement Commission (IPLEC) is at the forefront of this battle, working tirelessly to protect nations, businesses, and individuals from digital threats. A Global Response to a Global Threat Cybercriminals operate across borders, making international cooperation essential. IPLEC’s Cybercrime Unit works with member countries to monitor and respond to digital threats in real-time. IPLEC’s efforts led to the takedown of a major ransomware network that had targeted hospitals, schools, and businesses in over 20 countries. Real-Time Cybercrime Databases IPLEC’s real-time cybercrime databases are a game-changer for law enforcement. These databases allow member countries to share intelligence on cyber threats, track criminal activity, and coordinate cross-border investigations. For example, in a recent operation, IPLEC’s databases helped identify and arrest a group of hackers responsible for stealing over $50 million through phishing scams. Empowering Law Enforcement To stay ahead of cybercriminals, IPLEC offers specialized training programs for law enforcement professionals. These programs cover topics like cryptocurrency fraud, dark web investigations, and digital forensics., Over 2,000 officers completed IPLEC’s cybercrime training, enhancing their ability to combat digital threats. Raising Awareness IPLEC is also committed to raising awareness about cybercrime among businesses and individuals. Through campaigns and resources, IPLEC promotes best practices for cybersecurity, such as using strong passwords, enabling two-factor authentication, and recognizing phishing attempts. IPLEC is also raising awareness about human trafficking, empowering communities to protect themselves and support survivors.

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IINTCIPOL’s – Fight Against Human Trafficking

  Human trafficking is a grave violation of human rights, affecting millions of people worldwide. It’s a complex issue that requires a coordinated international response. The International Police Law Enforcement Commission (IPLEC) is leading the charge to combat this global crisis, working to dismantle trafficking networks, rescue victims, and bring traffickers to justice. A Coordinated Global Effort IPLEC’s Human Trafficking Task Force works with member countries to identify and dismantle trafficking networks. IPLEC facilitated a joint operation involving 10 countries that rescued over 300 victims and arrested 40 traffickers. This operation highlighted the power of international cooperation in combating human trafficking. Real-Time Intelligence Sharing IPLEC’s real-time crime databases play a crucial role in the fight against human trafficking. These databases allow law enforcement agencies to share intelligence on trafficking routes, suspects, and victims. For example, in a recent case, IPLEC’s databases helped track a trafficking ring operating across three continents, leading to the arrest of its leaders. Supporting Victims IPLEC is not just focused on catching traffickers—it’s also committed to supporting victims. Through partnerships with NGOs and international organizations, IPLEC provides victims with access to medical care, counseling, and legal assistance. Through its Human Trafficking Task Force, IPLEC works with member countries to identify and dismantle trafficking networks. By leveraging its real-time crime databases, IPLEC enables law enforcement agencies to share intelligence, track suspects, and rescue victims. IPLEC also provides specialized training to officers, helping them recognize the signs of trafficking and respond effectively. But the fight doesn’t end there. IPLEC is also raising awareness about human trafficking, empowering communities to protect themselves and support survivors. Together, we can break the chains of exploitation and build a world where everyone is free.

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