Financial Crimes Investigation Techniques Workshop Concludes in Grenada
A week-long workshop on financial investigative techniques concluded in Grenada on May 26th, bringing together police and financial intelligence units from across the Eastern Caribbean to enhance their skills in identifying, assessing, and pursuing financial investigations.
International Collaboration
The training was hosted by the US Department of the Treasury’s Internal Revenue Service (IRS) - Criminal Investigation, with assistance from the US Embassy Bridgetown and its International Narcotics and Law Enforcement Affairs section. This collaborative effort is part of ongoing efforts to enhance financial investigations and raise awareness of illicit financial transactions in the region.
Workshop Objectives
The workshop, conducted by the IRS’ National Criminal Investigation Training Academy, covered a range of topics including:
- Methods for identifying fraud and money laundering
- Evidence gathering and analysis
- Interviewing techniques
- Preparation for courtroom activities
- An in-depth practical exercise
Participants were trained to effectively identify and investigate financial crimes, with a focus on international cooperation and information sharing.
Regional Significance
Grenada was chosen as the host country due to its proactive approach in combating financial fraud. The training is seen as a significant step forward in strengthening regional efforts to combat financial crimes, and participants were grateful for the opportunity to learn from experienced trainers.
Quote “‘With the rapid expansion of global banking and instantaneous transfers of money, there is a need for financial intelligence units, revenue and customs authorities, law enforcement personnel, government prosecutors, and judges to work closely together to stop financial crimes,’ said Linda Taglialatela, US Ambassador to Barbados, the Eastern Caribbean, and the OECS.”
FATCA Signing Grenada was commended for recently signing the Foreign Account Tax Compliance Act (FATCA) with the United States and actively participating in the Caribbean Financial Action Task Force.
Participant Feedback “This training has been invaluable in enhancing our skills and capabilities in identifying and investigating financial crimes,” said a participant from a local law enforcement agency.