Trinidad and Tobago Police Service Unveils Financial Crime Investigation Procedures
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The Trinidad and Tobago Police Service has taken a significant step in combating the growing threat of financial crimes in the country. The Financial Investigation Branch (FIB), which is mandated by law to enforce the Proceeds of Crime Act (POCA) and the Anti-Terrorism Act, has outlined its procedures for investigating and prosecuting individuals accused of money laundering, terrorist financing, and financing weapons of mass destruction.
Mandate and Responsibilities
The FIB’s mandate includes investigating and forfeiting cash seized by police officers under POCA, with a minimum threshold of TT$20,000 or its equivalent in other currencies. Only police officers at the rank of sergeant and above are authorized to seize cash, emphasizing the gravity of this procedure.
Investigation Procedures
The FIB investigates financial crimes using a multi-faceted approach, including:
- Cash seizure: The FIB seizes cash exceeding the minimum threshold of TT$20,000 or its equivalent in other currencies.
- Asset tracing: The FIB identifies and tracks assets linked to suspected financial crimes.
- Interviews: The FIB conducts interviews with suspects, witnesses, and other individuals with relevant information.
- Forensic analysis: The FIB conducts forensic analysis on seized assets and evidence.
Contact Information
The Financial Investigation Branch can be contacted at:
- 13th Floor, Riverside Plaza, Besson Street, Port of Spain
- Phone: (868) 627-4281