Financial Crime Investigation Techniques in Trinidad and Tobago: A Force to be Reckoned With
Trinidad and Tobago’s Financial Intelligence Unit (FIU) has been making significant strides in combating financial crime, led by its Director, Mr. Nigel Stoddard, since 2019.
The Leader of the Pack
Mr. Stoddard brings a wealth of expertise to the table with his background in law enforcement and over 18 years of experience in anti-money laundering and combating the financing of terrorism (AML/CFT). As Deputy Chair of the National Anti-Money Laundering and Counter Financing of Terrorism Committee, he has played a key role in shaping the country’s AML/CFT strategy.
Education and Training
Mr. Stoddart holds an MBA degree and a B.Sc. (Hons) degree in Computing and Information Systems, making him well-equipped to tackle complex financial crime cases. He is also an Accredited Financial Investigator from the Caribbean Anti-Money Laundering Programme and has received training from reputable institutions such as:
- Metropolitan Detective Training School in UK
- Caribbean Financial Action Task Force (CFATF)
- US Department of Justice
Expertise and Achievements
Mr. Stoddart’s impressive credentials include:
- Being a Country Examiner trained by the CFATF, conducting assessments of Trinidad and Tobago’s AML/CFT regime in compliance with Financial Action Task Force (FATF) Recommendations
- Representing the country at regional and international AML/CFT meetings
- Contributing to the publication of several money laundering and financing of terrorism typology reports by CFATF
Leadership and Collaboration
Under Mr. Stoddart’s leadership, the FIU has been actively working with local law enforcement, regulators, and international counterparts to effectively detect and deter financial crime. The unit:
- Provides awareness training in compliance to non-regulated financial institutions and listed business (DNFBPs)
- Conducts on-site compliance examinations of these entities to ensure their adherence to the AML/CFT regime
Conclusion
As Trinidad and Tobago strives to create a safe and stable financial, social, and economic environment, Mr. Stoddart’s expertise and dedication to combating financial crime will undoubtedly play a crucial role in achieving this vision.