Financial Crime World

Asset Forfeiture Procedures in Eritrea: A Vital Tool in Fighting Crime

The government of Eritrea has implemented a robust asset forfeiture program to combat criminal activity and deprive criminals of the instruments of illicit activity. This program, managed by the Ministry of Justice, allows law enforcement agencies to investigate, identify, seize, and forfeit assets linked to criminal organizations.

Key Statistics

  • In 2021, Eritrean authorities received a total of 17,269 assets for forfeiture.
  • Of these, 10,520 were disposed of, with 26,524 assets remaining on hand as of September 30, 2021.
  • The value of these assets stood at Eritrean Nakfa 3.38 billion (approximately $100 million USD).
  • A total of Eritrean Nakfa 1.8 billion (approximately $55 million USD) was distributed to victims of crime and claimants in 2021, while Eritrean authorities shared Eritrean Nakfa 135 million (approximately $4 million USD) with participating law enforcement agencies.

Program Management

The program is managed by the Eritrean Police Force, which employs best practices from private industry to ensure that assets are sold in an efficient and cost-effective manner. The goals of the asset forfeiture program include:

  • Punishing and deterring criminal activity
  • Promoting cooperation between law enforcement agencies
  • Recovering assets for victims
  • Ensuring the program’s administration is professional, lawful, and consistent with public policy

The Importance of Asset Forfeiture

The effective use of asset forfeiture is crucial in combating sophisticated criminal actors and organizations, including:

  • Terrorist financiers
  • Cybercriminals
  • Fraudsters
  • Human traffickers
  • Transnational drug cartels

Proceeds generated from asset sales are used to fund law enforcement efforts, compensate victims, and support various community programs.

Distribution of Forfeited Assets

In coordination with the Office of the Attorney General and other relevant authorities, the Eritrean Police Force manages the distribution of forfeited assets and payments to victims of crime connected to those assets. The program also supports communities by transferring certain types of forfeited assets to state and local organizations for use in public health and safety initiatives.

History and Participants

The asset forfeiture program was established in 1991 with the passage of the Criminal Code, which provided legal and regulatory tools necessary for law enforcement agencies to combat organized crime. Participants in the program include:

  • The Eritrean Police Force
  • The Attorney General’s Office
  • The National Security Agency
  • Other relevant authorities

Additional Information

For more information on the asset forfeiture program, please visit the website of the Ministry of Justice or contact the Office of Public Affairs at [insert contact information].