Financial Crime World

Seychelles Financial Crime Unit Scores First Disposal Order in Proceeds of Crime Cases Worth R19.9 Million

The Financial Crime Investigation Unit (FCIU) of the Seychelles Police Force has achieved a significant milestone in financial crime investigation with its first disposal order under the Proceeds of Crime (Civil Confiscation) Act (POCCCA). This landmark ruling comes after the FCIU brought 17 cases before the Supreme Court since 2018, involving a total of 27 local citizens and five foreigners.

The Disposal Order

The disposal order was issued in a case involving five individuals from Praslin, including John Sifflore, Davis Lesperance, Agnes Meggy, Lawrence Tirant, and Marie-Aline Couchen. The Supreme Court ordered that a total sum of R260,282.37 and Euros 330, as well as vehicles seized by the FCIU, be forfeited to the government of Seychelles.

Investigation Details

The FCIU investigation, which was initiated in 2019, revealed that the sums seized and vehicles involved were proceeds of drug trafficking and money-laundering. Notably, most of the 17 cases currently before the Supreme Court are joint investigations by the Anti-Narcotics Bureau (ANB) and FCIU, with a majority being related to drug-related crimes.

Significance of the Disposal Order

The disposal order marks a significant development in the fight against financial crime in Seychelles. Authorities are expected to continue pursuing assets linked to criminal activities. The outcome of these cases is set to send a strong message to individuals involved in illegal activities that they will be held accountable for their actions.

Key Points

  • The FCIU brought 17 cases before the Supreme Court since 2018, involving 27 local citizens and five foreigners.
  • The disposal order was issued in a case involving five individuals from Praslin.
  • The seized assets include R260,282.37, Euros 330, and vehicles.
  • Most of the cases are joint investigations by ANB and FCIU, with a majority being related to drug-related crimes.
  • The outcome is expected to send a strong message to individuals involved in illegal activities that they will be held accountable for their actions.