Combating Terrorism Financing: Regional Experts Unite in Peru
In a concerted effort to combat terrorism financing, 28 experts from eight customs administrations and 13 financial intelligence units across Latin America gathered in Lima, Peru for an intensive training session on anti-money laundering and counter-terrorism financing.
Workshop Details
The Financial Intelligence Compendium Workshop, hosted by the World Customs Organization (WCO) and the Egmont Group (EG), took place from February 27 to March 1. The event was funded by the US Department of State’s Bureau of International Narcotics and Law Enforcement Affairs (INL).
Importance of Cooperation
The workshop kicked off with opening remarks from representatives of WCO, EG, and Peru’s Financial Intelligence Unit, emphasizing the significance of cooperation between customs administrations and financial intelligence units in combating money laundering and terrorism financing.
Hands-on Training Sessions
Participants engaged in hands-on training sessions covering:
- Suspicious Activity Reporting: Identifying red flags and reporting suspicious transactions
- Operational Analysis: Analyzing data to identify patterns and trends
- Strategic Analysis: Developing strategies for anti-money laundering and counter-terrorism financing investigations
- Trade-Based Money Laundering Investigation: Uncovering illegal activities through trade transactions
- Terrorism Financing: Understanding the tactics and methods used by terrorist organizations
The practical exercises fostered collaboration between customs and financial intelligence unit representatives, identifying common goals and strategies for anti-money laundering and counter-terrorism financing investigations.
Conclusion
The event concluded with WCO and EG thanking Peru’s Financial Intelligence Unit and Customs Administration (SUNAT) for hosting the workshop, as well as the US State Department’s INL for its financial support. The organizations emphasized the importance of international cooperation in the fight against money laundering and terrorism financing.
Peru’s Role in Regional Security
Peru is a critical player in this global effort, with its strategic location and economic significance making it an important hub for regional security efforts. The workshop represents a significant step forward in the region’s fight against money laundering, highlighting the power of international cooperation and shared commitment to enhancing regional security.
Key Takeaways
- International cooperation is crucial in combating terrorism financing
- Customs administrations and financial intelligence units must work together to share knowledge and best practices
- Practical training sessions can foster collaboration and identify common goals
- Peru plays a critical role in regional security efforts, making it an important hub for international cooperation.