The delegation was led by Javier Samper, director of EL PACCTO 2.0. During the visit to the OM in Paramaribo, the main needs of the Surinamese prosecution service were discussed and areas for further cooperation were considered.
Tackling drug crime, human trafficking and cybercrime
The consultations focused, among other things, on combating drug crime, human trafficking, cybercrime and financial crime. These are forms of crime in which international cooperation and specialised investigative methods play an important role.
Special attention was given to strengthening capabilities for digital evidence gathering and investigating cryptocurrency transactions. Such investigative methods may be important in tracing criminal financial flows and collecting evidence in complex criminal cases.
Possibilities were also discussed for better equipping Surinamese experts to tackle these forms of crime through technical support and targeted training.
Confiscating criminal assets and protecting witnesses
Another important topic of discussion was the confiscation of assets derived from criminal activities. This included the legal, practical and financial challenges that investigative and prosecutorial authorities may encounter.
Witness protection was also discussed. This is particularly important in investigations into organised crime, in which witnesses may face risks because of their cooperation with criminal investigations.
Faster international support
The consultations further emphasised that direct lines of communication between experts and contact persons are necessary to make international cooperation more effective.
Direct contact between the authorities involved should make it possible to engage the appropriate expertise and technical support more quickly in specific criminal justice matters.
EL PACCTO 2.0 is a cooperation programme funded by the European Union that supports countries in Latin America and the Caribbean in combating cross-border organised crime.
Through the consultations, the OM is exploring possibilities for making use of international knowledge, expertise and support programmes. It has not yet been announced which specific agreements resulted from the discussions or when any support may become available.
