Financial Crime World

Financial Crime Investigation Procedures in Albania Receive Boost from EU4FOCAL Project

Introduction

The Albanian authorities have taken a significant step forward in their efforts to combat organized crime and financial malfeasance with the launch of the EU4FOCAL project. This €5.55 million initiative aims to strengthen the country’s capacity for effective financial investigations.

Project Overview

Implemented by Fundación Internacional y para Iberoamérica de Administración y Políticas Públicas (FIIAPP), in partnership with the Albanian State Police, General Prosecution Office, SPAK, Financial Investigation Unit, and Customs, the project has a four-year timeline that runs until April 2024.

Project Objectives

The overall objective of EU4FOCAL is to enhance the fight against organized crime and drug trafficking in Albania through proactive and intelligence-driven investigative methods. To achieve this goal, the project will provide:

  • Technical assistance: Expert advice and guidance on financial investigations and analysis
  • Training: Training sessions for law enforcement agencies, prosecutors’ offices, and Customs on financial investigation techniques and procedures
  • Mentoring: One-on-one mentoring and coaching for key personnel to develop their skills and expertise
  • Peer-to-peer assistance: Exchange of best practices and experiences between participating agencies
  • Study visits: Study tours to other countries with advanced financial investigation capabilities
  • Procurement of equipment: Procurement of necessary equipment, such as software and hardware, for financial investigations

Expected Results

The expected results of the project include:

  • Enhanced capacities for prosecutors’ offices and the Financial Investigation Unit to tackle money laundering
  • Improved technical capabilities for law enforcement agencies (LEAs) and Customs to fight organized crime and finance-related crimes
  • Strengthened intelligence and investigation operational capacities for LEAs, Customs, and FIU

Project Impact

The EU4FOCAL project represents a significant investment in Albania’s efforts to combat financial crime and strengthen its institutions. The project aims to make a tangible difference in the fight against organized crime and promote good governance.

European Union Support

The EU4FOCAL project is part of a broader effort by the European Union to support Albania in its efforts to strengthen its justice system, combat corruption, and promote good governance.