Financial Crime World

Corruption Watchdog Gets Boost in Fight Against Graft

The Anti-Corruption Investigations Bureau (ACIB) has implemented several measures to enhance its operations and tackle corruption in Trinidad and Tobago.

New Training Protocols

To ensure that investigators are equipped to handle complex cases efficiently and effectively, the ACIB has identified training needs for all staff members. The focus is on investigative techniques, with Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) developed in tandem with the Trinidad and Tobago Police Service.

Reports and Classification

The ACIB receives reports from various sources, including correspondence from the Commissioner of Police, walk-ins from the general public, and reports from government departments. Reports are categorized into three classes:

  • General Fraud
  • Government Fraud
  • Information (matters that do not constitute criminal impropriety)

Common Corruption Offences

The ACIB has identified several common corruption offences, including:

  • Corruptly soliciting or receiving money
  • Uttering fraudulent documents
  • Making false statutory declarations
  • Perjury
  • Misbehavior in public office

The Role of the ACIB Investigator

Investigators at the ACIB focus on prevention, detection, and institution of criminal charges. They conduct outreach programs, such as seminars, to educate the public about corruption and its consequences.

Knowledge Required

To be effective, investigators require a range of knowledge and skills, including:

  • Understanding of the elements of a crime
  • Appreciation of the ingredients necessary to establish acts of corruption
  • Knowledge of the Judges’ Rules and Administrative Directions

Reports Against Police Officers: A New Policy

The ACIB has introduced a new policy aimed at streamlining operations related to reports made by members of the public against police officers. The policy aims to address constraints such as:

  • Obtaining information and documents in a timely manner
  • Shortage of manpower
  • Lack of training programs

Achievements in 2010

In 2010, the ACIB achieved several milestones, including:

  • Reducing crime and protecting citizens through prompt, unbiased, and professional investigations
  • Hosting seminars and lectures to develop awareness about corruption within the Trinidad and Tobago Police Service and the country as a whole

Essential Attributes

To succeed in this role, investigators must possess essential attributes such as:

  • Discipline
  • Self-motivation
  • Confidentiality
  • High ethical standards
  • Communication and interviewing skills
  • Good oral and writing skills
  • Dedication to duty
  • Sense of team spirit

Additional advantageous attributes include:

  • Creativity
  • Computer literacy
  • Basic accounting knowledge
  • Public relation skills
  • Good organizing skills
  • Presentation skills
  • Formal legal training
  • A valid driver’s permit

Protocols and Procedures

The ACIB has established protocols for handling reports against police officers, including:

  • Notification procedures
  • Fact recording
  • Informing the Duty Inspector
  • Guidelines for action to be taken on weekends or public holidays