Armenia’s Law Enforcement Agencies Boost Crypto-Asset Investigation Capabilities through OSCE-Facilitated Training

Strengthening Domestic Law Enforcement Capabilities in Crypto Investigations

In a bid to stay ahead of the curve in investigating crypto-related crimes, 27 representatives from various agencies in Armenia recently underwent a three-day training on crypto-asset investigations facilitated by the Office of the Co-ordinator of OSCE Economic and Environmental Activities (OCEEA) in collaboration with the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC).

Training Objectives

The training, which took place in Yerevan, focused on fundamental techniques and practical tools for effective investigations into crypto-related crimes. Participants learned methods for tracing criminal transactions across diverse blockchain networks, exchanged good practices, and gained insights into specialized analytics software and open-source tools relevant to the field.

Project Overview

This initiative is part of an OSCE-led project aimed at assisting participating states in developing national capacities to mitigate criminal risks associated with virtual assets and cryptocurrencies. The training was funded by Germany, Italy, and the United States.

Growing Importance of Crypto-Asset Investigations

A recent survey revealed that a majority of law enforcement professionals lack adequate skills and technology to effectively combat crypto-related crimes. This effort aligns with global trends, as seen in India’s training of law enforcement personnel in cryptocurrency forensics and investigation.

Benefits of the Training Initiative

These training initiatives play a vital role in enhancing the ability of law enforcement agencies to navigate the complexities of crypto investigations, contributing to global efforts to combat financial crimes in the digital age. With this enhanced capability, Armenia’s law enforcement agencies will be better equipped to tackle the increasing threat of financial crime and protect its citizens from the risks associated with virtual assets and cryptocurrencies.

Key Takeaways

• 27 representatives from various agencies in Armenia underwent a three-day training on crypto-asset investigations
• The training focused on fundamental techniques and practical tools for effective investigations into crypto-related crimes
• Participants learned methods for tracing criminal transactions across diverse blockchain networks
• The initiative is part of an OSCE-led project aimed at assisting participating states in developing national capacities to mitigate criminal risks associated with virtual assets and cryptocurrencies
• The training was funded by Germany, Italy, and the United States