Financial Crime World

Here is the article rewritten in markdown format:

Organized Crime in the Netherlands: A Threat Assessment

======================================================

Overview of Key Threats

The Netherlands is a significant hub for international trade and a transit country for various illicit activities, including arms trafficking and bribery. In this article, we will provide an overview of these threats, their characteristics, modus operandi, and extent.

Arms Trafficking in the Netherlands

Description

Trafficking of arms involves the import, export, acquisition, sale, delivery, movement, or transfer of arms across national borders.

Characteristics NL

  • The Netherlands is an international trade hub and a transit country for arms.
  • EU membership facilitates the transfer of arms across borders.

Modus Operandi

  • Arms often originate from Germany, Belgium, and Balkan countries.
  • Traffickers use parcel packages and road transport to store arms in storage boxes.

Extent of Threat

  • Estimated 230,000 illegal firearms circulated in The Netherlands in 2017.
  • Police statistics show an increase in illicit possession and trade in firearms since then.

Bribery: A Significant Financial Crime Threat

Description

Bribery involves offering, giving, receiving, or soliciting something of value to influence the actions or decisions of individuals in positions of authority.

Characteristics NL

  • Bribery is a significant financial crime threat in The Netherlands.
  • It encompasses public and private corruption practices involving interactions between nationals and foreign officials.

Modus Operandi

  • Bribery can occur through various means, including cash payments, gifts, and favors.
  • It often involves complex legal and ethical issues within international and domestic contexts.

Extent of Threat

  • Bribery is a significant financial crime threat in The Netherlands, with ongoing efforts to prevent and combat it.