Seychelles Unveils Groundbreaking Judicial Manual to Combat Financial Crimes
A Major Breakthrough in the Fight Against Money Laundering
Seychelles has launched a pioneering judicial manual specifically tailored for the country, marking a significant stride towards bolstering efforts against financial crimes. The manual was developed in collaboration with the European Union (EU) Global Facility on Anti-Money Laundering and Counter-Terrorist Financing (AML/CTF).
A Comprehensive Guide to Prosecuting Financial Crimes
The manual is the culmination of over a year’s collaboration between Seychelles and the EU, led by a team comprising Lionel Garrick, director of legal affairs at the Judiciary, and senior legal researcher Olya Hetsman. The team worked closely with EU experts and teams from the Attorney General’s Office, Financial Investigation Unit (FIU), and Financial Crime Investigation Unit (FCIU) of the Seychelles Police to ensure that the document met local needs while also serving as a comprehensive guide throughout the prosecution chain, from investigation to trial.
A Response to the Enactment of Anti-Money Laundering Legislation
This manual is a response to the enactment of the Anti-Money Laundering and Countering the Financing of Terrorism Act in 2020, which highlighted the need for comprehensive guidelines to navigate complex investigations and prosecute financial crimes effectively. The document aims to provide practical support in financial investigations related to anti-money laundering and counter-terrorist financing cases.
Key Features of the Manual
- Provides a comprehensive guide throughout the prosecution chain, from investigation to trial
- Offers practical support in financial investigations related to anti-money laundering and counter-terrorist financing cases
- Developed in collaboration with EU experts and teams from the Attorney General’s Office, FIU, and FCIU of the Seychelles Police
Impact on Seychelles’ Efforts Against Money Laundering
Richard Rampal, director of the FIU, emphasized the impact that this manual will have on Seychelles’ efforts against money laundering, stating that it is a significant development for the island nation. David Hotte, EU Global Facility Team Leader, highlighted the importance of equipping Seychelles with tangible tools to combat financial crimes effectively.
International Collaboration
The manual’s development involved experts from France, the Netherlands, Moldova, and Poland, ensuring seamless coordination among all stakeholders involved in combating financial crimes.
Conclusion
With this groundbreaking tool, Seychelles is poised to strengthen its fight against money laundering and counter-terrorist financing, marking a major milestone in its efforts to maintain financial integrity.