Victoria, Seychelles – Interpol has commended Seychelles for its significant contributions to multinational operations focused on combatting transnational crimes, according to the country’s Minister for Internal Affairs and Immigration, Errol Fonseka.
According to Seychelles News Agency, the commendation came during a National Assembly session where Fonseka was responding to a question from Phillip Arrisol, the elected member for the southern Anse Boileau district. The question addressed how the Seychelles government is coordinating with neighboring countries and international organizations to counter transnational criminal activities, including drug and human trafficking, within Seychelles’ territorial waters and on land.
Fonseka stated that the Seychelles police force has a comprehensive strategy in place for the enforcement of law both regionally and internationally. This involves consistent communication with key international partners, including the majority of police forces of countries involved in the fight against organized and transnational crimes.
Fonseka also emphasized that Seychelles collaborates with these countries in joint operations that are organized periodically, especially within the region. When asked about the success of these collaborations, Fonseka said that they should be seen as long-term investments, the rewards of which will manifest over time.
The minister read a letter from the President of Interpol, Major General Ahmed Naser Al-Raisi of the United Arab Emirates, which specifically acknowledged Seychelles’ commitment to international crime fighting efforts. Interpol highlighted that Seychelles has been a valuable member of the organization since 1977, actively participating in numerous operations.
Interpol cited Operation Lionfish, which concluded in April 2021, as an example of Seychelles’ contributions. This operation targeted international drug trafficking and resulted in the arrest of 287 individuals. Illicit narcotics nearly worth €100 million were seized in the operation, which was carried out in cooperation with 40 other Interpol member countries.
The letter from Interpol also stated that Seychelles’ participation in such operations is crucial for achieving the collective goal of making the world a safer place. Seychelles has also been instrumental in the success of multiple projects aimed at enhancing policing capabilities and interoperability among Interpol’s member countries.