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PNP, Interpol join forces vs. 'white collar' crimes

By Christopher Lloyd Caliwan

February 9, 2023, 2:47 pm

<p>PNP chief Gen. Rodolfo Azurin Jr.,(right) and Interpol Abu Dhabi National Central Bureau deputy director Lt. Col. Dana Almarzooqi (left) <em>(Photo courtesy of PNP Public Information Office)</em></p>

PNP chief Gen. Rodolfo Azurin Jr.,(right) and Interpol Abu Dhabi National Central Bureau deputy director Lt. Col. Dana Almarzooqi (left) (Photo courtesy of PNP Public Information Office)

MANILA – The Philippine National Police (PNP) and International Criminal Police Organization (Interpol) have agreed to beef up their operations against so-called “white collar” crimes, or those usually committed by white-collar workers in a company or government agency by taking advantage of their position to extract some financial gain.

This is among the issues discussed in a bilateral meeting between PNP chief Gen. Rodolfo Azurin Jr., and Interpol Abu Dhabi National Central Bureau deputy director Lt. Col. Dana Almarzooqi during the 24th Interpol Asian Regional Conference in Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates on Wednesday.

Both sides discussed crucial issues surrounding emerging criminal trends such as money laundering, financial crimes, drug trafficking, and cybercrimes, according to a news release from the PNP Public Information Office on Thursday.

Azurin manifested that the PNP is committed to addressing the region's most pressing crimes, especially those involving financial crimes in drug trafficking, stating "our partnership with UAE will greatly contribute to this effort."

Azurin highlighted the essential role of the PNP's Directorate for Information and Communications Technology Management (DICTM) in addressing the present and future ICT challenges and streamlining critical services to the community.

He said the DIDM plays a key role in the investigation of transnational crimes, while the function of the PNP Directorate for Information and Communications Technology Management (DICTM) is essential towards the realization of a Secured, Mobile, Artificial Intelligence-driven, Real-time, Technology (S.M.A.R.T.) Policing.

“DICTM will play a vital role in the efficient and effective delivery of crime prevention and crime solution services to the external and internal stakeholders of the PNP," said Azurin.

The PNP chief also stressed the importance of the Directorate for Investigation and Detective Management through the PNP Women and Children Protection Center (WCPC) in addressing child and women exploitation, including the crackdown on international fugitives listed in the Interpol Red Notice.

Information about some foreigners engaged in online sexual exploitation was also raised, to which the UAE offered its artificial intelligence technology provider hub for free to boost the PNP's capabilities in combating online sexual abuse.

"The PNP is determined to make the Philippines a safer place for everyone, and our partnership with UAE will certainly bring us closer to this noble endeavor. I am grateful for the support and cooperation of our partners in the UAE. We are confident that together, we can overcome the challenges posed by transnational crimes and create a safer future for our citizens," he stressed.

The UAE officials commended the interventions of the PNP in dealing with cybercrimes and human trafficking, with the latter offering to include the PNP in training programs secured from other member states.

The quarterly meetings between the PNP and UAE police were also recommended as well as the creation of an International Investigation Affairs Bureau that will conduct investigations and operations to catch up with foreign offenders between the two countries.

"Retired officers should also be hired as consultants and advisers due to their experience," added by UAE counterparts This statement highlights the importance of utilizing the expertise of those who have served in the field, as they bring a wealth of knowledge and experience that can be of great benefit in addressing the pressing issues in the region.

Online gambling was also discussed as an emerging issue in the Philippines and the Asian region.

"This is a problem that needs to be addressed globally and we are committed to working with our international partners to tackle this issue head-on," said Azurin. (PNA)

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