Financial Crime World

Niger’s Anti-Money Laundering and Counter-Terrorism Financing Efforts Show Promise

Dakar, Senegal - April 26, 2012

The highest authorities in Niger are being urged to sustain their momentum in improving the country’s anti-money laundering (AML) and counter-terrorism financing (CFT) regime. This call comes as GIABA, a regional anti-money laundering body, has observed significant progress in Niger’s efforts to combat financial crimes.

Key Developments

The 4th Follow-Up Report submitted to the GIABA Technical Commission in November 2012 highlights several key developments:

  • Establishment of the Haute Autorité de Lutte contre la Corruption et les Infractions Assimilées (HALCIA), which has led to:
    • Interrogation and detention hearings of high-profile individuals suspected of smuggling goods
    • Setting up a hotline for citizens to report corruption cases
  • Counter-terrorism financing efforts, including:
    • Establishment of a central service at the General Directorate for Territorial Surveillance
    • Creation of a terrorism prevention and CTF unit within the judicial system
  • Improvements in the Financial Intelligence Unit (FIU), including:
    • Better working conditions
    • More resources
    • Revised rules and regulations
    • Processing seven Suspicious Transaction Reports (STRs) in 2012, with five referred to the Public Prosecutor

Cooperation and Training

Niger has strengthened its cooperation with other FIUs by:

  • Signing agreements with Ghana’s FIC and Gabon’s FIU
  • Embarking on study tours to learn best practices from foreign FIUs

The country’s Justice Minister officially inaugurated the AML/CFT National Coordination Committee in April 2012, which has since organized a workshop for its members to train them on the AML/CFT national strategy.

Technical Assistance and Recommendations

To further support Niger’s efforts, GIABA is providing technical assistance, including:

  • Training programs
  • Study tours
  • Equipment procurement

However, it is crucial that the country’s technical assistance needs are determined based on its organized crime situation. The authorities must work together to tackle organized crime effectively, involving security services, judges, and AML/CFT entities.

Conclusion

While Niger still faces significant challenges, its progress in AML/CFT is promising. The country’s authorities must continue to work together to build on this momentum and ensure that the country remains committed to combating financial crimes.