For the first time since 2019, the INTERPOL European Regional Conference enabled over 120 senior police officials from 50 countries to meet and discuss issues such as INTERPOL’s assessment on crime threats and trends, and enhanced information-sharing and investigation capabilities.

Crime linked to conflict in Ukraine

In a 17 May 2022 INTERPOL publication a reference is made to an increase in crimes linked to the conflict, including an increase in financial and cybercrime, such an online scams, phishing and malware development. Further, price rises in fertiliser and pesticides have resulted in increasing counterfeiting.

Launch of INTERPOL’s Financial Crime and Anti-Corruption Centre

There was also a briefing on the launch of INTERPOL’s Financial Crime and Anti-Corruption Centre (“IFCACC”).  As has been previously discussed, this should result in much more sophisticated international information-sharing. This will surely also make it easier for INTERPOL member countries to investigate, locate, and potentially bring to justice through INTERPOL those alleged to have committed offences of financial nature.

Indeed, it is reported that IFCACC has already intercepted millions of Euros and is providing assistance to law enforcement across the world.

Mention is also made of the recent launch of the Frontex INTERPOL Electronic Library Document System, which provides visual markers that can indicate a counterfeit of forged documents.

What does this mean – enhanced police cooperation?

INTERPOL continues to identify and expand into areas for enhanced cooperation and thus extensively extend their reach and capabilities.

With regards to investigations against individuals, the potential for enhanced information- sharing, and potentially easier access to evidence, from a broader scope may ultimately result in charges against those who are based in the UK, extradition requests being issued against those based abroad, or INTERPOL Red Notices more readily leading to extradition proceedings being initiated. 

Therefore, if you have conducted business and are worried about liability, if you have unresolved financial matters, including even an outstanding civil dispute, and you fear that you may be subject to INTERPOL measures, including a Red Notice, expert legal advice should be immediately sought.

How Gherson can help

Those who fear that they may be subject to INTERPOL measures, including a Red Notice, should take heed.

Indeed, Gherson Solicitors continue to receive requests for expert advice and assistance from those who fear they may have outstanding financial issues arising. This advice tackles:   

1. How best to approach a possible INTERPOL red notice;
2. Preparing for potential criminal proceedings / an extradition request;
3. Preparing for a situation where a civil matter or commercial dispute could be used to initiate bogus criminal proceedings; and
4. Exploring the possibility of instigating civil litigation proceedings to recover any misappropriated assets.

Gherson have previously written a series of blogs designed to assist those who fear they might be subject to INTERPOL measures (including a Red Notice):

INTERPOL and Red Notice Challenges

How to Remove an INTERPOL Red Notice

INTERPOL Red Notices and Extradition

How do I know if I am subject to an INTERPOL Red Notice

Gherson has over 30 years of experience in assisting with all aspects of INTERPOL, Red Notice challenges and extradition. If you would like to speak to us in respect of any of the issues raised in this video or about your specific circumstances, do not hesitate to contact us for advice, send us an , or, alternatively, follow us on Twitter, Facebook, or LinkedIn to stay-up-to-date.

The information in this blog is for general information purposes only and does not purport to be comprehensive or to provide legal advice. Whilst every effort is made to ensure the information and law is current as of the date of publication it should be stressed that, due to the passage of time, this does not necessarily reflect the present legal position. Gherson accepts no responsibility for loss which may arise from accessing or reliance on information contained in this blog. For formal advice on the current law please don’t hesitate to contact Gherson. Legal advice is only provided pursuant to a written agreement, identified as such, and signed by the client and by or on behalf of Gherson.

©Gherson 2022