The fight against transnational crime: Reflections from the 27th Interpol African Regional Conference
Interpol African Regional Conference: Tackling transnational crime in Cape Town.
Image: Kamogelo Moichela/IOL
The 27th Interpol African Regional Conference kicked off in Cape Town in the Western Cape on Wednesday morning with a focus on commitment to regional and international cooperation in combating transnational organised crime, terrorism, and other emerging security threats.
National commissioner of police Fannie Masemola opened by saying that Africa should build institutions to fight crime and collaborate to neutralise threats before they destroy progress.
"We gather today not merely as representatives of our respective countries, but as partners bound by a shared responsibility, to confront the complex and evolving challenges of transnational crime that undermine peace, prosperity and the rule of law across our beloved continent, "said Masemola.
He added that the gathering is held at a vital point as transnational organised crime is rapidly expanding globally, including in Africa. "Whether it is drug trafficking, human trafficking, cybercrime, firearms smuggling, vehicle theft, or illegal mining, these crimes exploit borders, weaken governance, fuel corruption, and destabilise communities.
"Let us be clear; transnational crime knows no borders and our response cannot be confined by borders either."
Interpol president Major General Ahmed Naser Al-Raisi said that the South African police have always led by example and are a pillar of international co-operation.
"Their commitment to tackling international threats and reinforcing South Africa's standing as a key force for regional and global security... This conference is a testament to the enduring partnership that defines Interpol's work on the continent.
"Throughout my Interpol career, I have had the pleasure of witnessing the efficiency, resilience and ingenuity of African law enforcements," Al-Raisi said.
He went on to say that he wants to remind everyone that Interpol is here to offer support. "Our role is to empower you and learn from you. We are committed to optimising the services we provide, fostering deeper collaboration, and ensuring our tools and resources meet your needs and goals."
Adding to this, the Acting Minister of Police, Prof Firoz Cachalia, complimented the wide array of police officers from different states but emphasised challenges in the field.
"This conference convenes at a critical juncture. Transnational organised crime remains one of the most serious threats to peace, stability, and development across Africa and beyond. Its manifestations are diverse: drug trafficking, human trafficking, illicit firearms, cybercrime (as technology evolves), wildlife crime, money laundering, and terrorism, to name but a few of the most threatening," said Cachalia.
These crimes cross boundaries, take use of technology advancements, and threaten people's security, as well as the integrity of nations and economies according to Cachalia.
"It is up to us to ensure that we uproot corruption within the law enforcement agencies themselves and to ensure that we have leaders who serve with integrity. Distinguished delegates, the task before us is daunting, but it is also inspiring.
"Our collective resolve, our shared expertise, and our commitment to cooperation give us reason to be hopeful. Let this conference serve as a catalyst for renewed determination and practical collaboration," Cachalia added.
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