Financial Crime Fighters Gather in Cook Islands for Exclusive Workshops
Date: 27 June 2023
Law enforcement authorities from the Pacific region came together in the beautiful locale of the Cook Islands for a series of financial investigation workshops. These workshops were aimed at enhancing their skills in combating higher-risk predicate crimes, money laundering, and asset confiscation.
Three-Month Workshop Series
The Cook Islands’ workshop, which took place from March 27-30, was one of three similar events held during a three-month period. Previous workshops were held in Palau (April 24-27) and Samoa (May 16-19), all organized in collaboration with the Pacific Transnational Crime Coordination Centre (PTCCC).
Renowned Financial Investigation Expert
Delivered by renowned financial investigation expert, Mr. Michael Petty, these in-person sessions were funded by the New Zealand Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade as part of the Pacific Anti-Money Laundering/Countering the Financing of Terrorism (AML/CFT) Capacity Development Programme.
These workshops built upon the success of previous virtual workshops conducted in 2021 and 2022.
Customized Money Laundering Scenario
A key aspect of the training involved a customized money laundering scenario tailored specifically to the Cook Islands’ unique risk landscape and legal framework. Participants gained valuable insights and hands-on experience in financial investigations against this picturesque backdrop of Rarotonga.
Sharing Perspectives and Knowledge
Photographs from the workshops show participants from Palau and Samoa also benefitting from these transformative sessions, attending sessions tailored to their respective countries and excitedly sharing their perspectives and knowledge with peers from the region.
Ongoing Pursuit of a Criminal-Free Pacific
These financial crime conferences in the Pacific serve as crucial tools in the ongoing pursuit to create a region where ill-gotten gains are not welcome, and where financial systems remain resilient to criminal exploitation. Law enforcement bodies across the Pacific are making significant strides towards ensuring a future that holds promise for a more secure and prosperous future for all.
Workshop Outcomes
- Enhanced skills and knowledge in combating financial crimes
- Shared perspectives and best practices among law enforcement entities in the Pacific region
- Strengthened partnership and collaboration between Pacific countries and external organizations
Together, law enforcement bodies across the Pacific are safeguarding their region against financial crimes and contributing to a more prosperous and secure future.