Deputy Director General of AMLIO: Spearheading Efforts to Combat Money Laundering and Terrorist Financing

Vientiane, Laos - The Anti-Money Laundering Intelligence Office (AMLIO) has been at the forefront of efforts to combat money laundering and terrorist financing in Laos. Under the leadership of its Deputy Director General, Chindamay Vilayhongs, AMLIO has been working tirelessly to strengthen the country’s financial intelligence capabilities and enhance international cooperation.

Dissemination of Manuals and Training

AMLIO recently conducted a handover ceremony to disseminate manuals and training related to the new form for 42 commercial banks in Laos. This initiative aims to build comprehensive, convenient, secure, and prompt financial systems that meet international standards. Furthermore, AMLIO plans to continue sharing this knowledge with other Relevant Entities (REs) beyond the banking sector.

International Cooperation

AMLIO has been actively engaging with international partners to enhance its capabilities. In 2018, the US government handed over technology and equipment to AMLIO to improve its IT capabilities and facilitate anti-money laundering and counter-terrorism financing efforts. The project was implemented by UNOPS and provided technical assistance, legal support, and consulting services.

Capacity Building

The office has also been focusing on capacity building through training programs. In September 2018, a delegation from AMLIO visited the Cambodian Financial Intelligence Units (CAFIU) to share experiences on AML/CFT IT development. Additionally, AMLIO participated in a training course on “Upgrading Qualification of National AML/CFT system’s experts” in Moscow, Russia Federation, where high-ranking officials from various line ministries attended.

Investigative Techniques

AMLIO has also been working to enhance its investigative techniques through collaborative efforts with international partners. In June 2018, the office conducted an Investigative Technique Workshop on Prosecuting Money Laundering and Financing of Terrorism in Champasack Province, which was chaired by Deputy Director General Vilayhongs.

National Risk Assessment

Furthermore, AMLIO has been playing a key role in the National Risk Assessment (NRA) process. In April 2018, the office participated in the 2nd ad-hoc committee meeting on NRA, where officials discussed the current implementation of the NRA and sought recommendations for future operation.

National Coordination Committee

The Deputy Director General has also been involved in the National Coordination Committee on AML/CFT, which held its 3rd Ordinary Session in October 2017. The committee aims to coordinate efforts among relevant entities to combat money laundering and terrorist financing.

Conclusion

Under the leadership of Deputy Director General Vilayhongs, AMLIO continues to demonstrate its commitment to combating money laundering and terrorist financing in Laos. Through international cooperation, capacity building, and technical assistance, the office is working towards strengthening the country’s financial intelligence capabilities and enhancing its ability to combat these threats.