Strengthening Partnerships to Tackle Transnational Crime
The Minister of Internal Affairs, Mr. Charles Fonseka, held a courtesy call with representatives from the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) and the U.S. Bureau of International Narcotics and Law Enforcement Affairs (INL).
Discussions focused on ongoing and future projects between UNODC and Seychelles, including the feasibility of establishing a Regional Drug Observatory (RDO). The meeting highlighted the importance of a coordinated regional response to transnational crime, with Seychelles reaffirming its leadership role and strong commitment to addressing these challenges.
Minister Fonseka emphasized the far-reaching effects of transnational crimes not only on the region but globally, and reiterated the Government’s commitment to investing in the right infrastructures to safeguard national and regional security.
Major Gerald Wong-Pool, Director of the National Information Sharing & Coordination Centre (NISCC) and Regional Fusion and Law Enforcement Centre for Safety and Security at Sea (Reflecs3) highlighted the Government’s ongoing efforts and the continued commitment of Seychelles to play an active role in regional initiatives against transnational crime.
Sgt. Jerrold Morel, Vice Chairperson of the National Cybersecurity Coordination Committee(NCCC), also emphasized the Government’s investment in cyber security, underlining its importance in strengthening resilience against evolving threats.
The United States and UNODC Global Maritime Crime Programme (GMCP) were recognized for their continued support in delivering maritime capacity-building initiatives. The establishment Centre of Excellence further demonstrates the US’s dedication and UNODC’s expertise in materializing initiatives of regional impact.
The meeting was attended by Mrs. Shah-Faure, Executive Director of the Ministers Secretariat, alongside Ms. Merideth Manella from the U.S. INL, and Mr. Rodrigo Contreras Cardona, Ms. Toral Vadgama, and Ms. Pooja Bissonauthsing from UNODC.