New EU-Funded Scanners and Training Bolster Albanian Customs Against Money Laundering
In the global fight against money laundering, Albania has emerged as a trouble spot for organized crime groups. Criminals largely operate outside Albanian borders, predominantly in Italy, the United Kingdom, and the United States. However, the southeastern European country is their preferred destination for laundering ill-gotten gains and enjoying the criminal proceeds.
The Challenges Faced by Albanian Authorities
Albanian authorities have reported an alarming surge in the transfer of illicit funds into the country in the form of cash. Criminals have been exploiting the weaknesses in the current systems to smuggle money into the nation, often concealed in the luggage of passengers or carried by “mules,” individuals who regularly travel to transport cash.
The EU’s Response: EU4FOCAL
Recognizing the need for bolstering the country’s customs capabilities, the European Union (EU) launched a new initiative, EU4FOCAL. Through this project, €1.7 million (approximately $1.9 million USD) was allocated for the purchase of two state-of-the-art scanners and providing specialized training to Albanian customs personnel.
Advanced Scanning Technologies
Modern scanning technologies have become effective tools in detecting not only prohibited substances but also large cash stashes that can be challenging to visualize with older scanners. These sophisticated imaging technologies enable law enforcement agencies to identify and intercept cash-smuggling attempts more efficiently.
Training Sessions for Albanian Customs Agents
This past December, training sessions were held at Rina International Airport for 15 Albanian customs agents. They were taught the intricacies of operating the recently acquired scanners led by experts from the Spanish National Police’s Weapons Section and TEDAX-NRBQ.
- Phase 1: Training 15 Agents
- December 2021: The first phase of the training took place.
The second phase of the training, scheduled for February, will educate another 15 customs agents on the proper use and interpretation of the scanner images.
Fortifying Albania’s Borders Against Financial Crimes
Empowering Albanian customs personnel with these new tools and expertise brings the nation one step closer to fortifying its borders against financial crimes and ensuring the safety and security of its citizens.