INTERPOL Launches Mentorship for East African NCB Leaders to Boost Cross-Border Crime Intelligence Sharing

INTERPOL has initiated a mentorship programme targeting new heads and senior staff of National Central Bureaus (NCBs) in East Africa, aiming to enhance collaboration and the exchange of criminal intelligence across borders.

The INTERPOL Policing Capabilities Mentorship Programme commenced on August 18, 2026, at the INTERPOL Regional Bureau in Nairobi. Kenya’s Director of Criminal Investigations (DCI), Mohammed I. Amin, who also represents Africa on the INTERPOL Executive Committee, emphasized the importance of regional cooperation to tackle transnational crimes effectively.

Addressing Transnational Crime

DCI Amin highlighted that threats such as terrorism, drug and human trafficking, cybercrime, money laundering, migrant smuggling, and wildlife trafficking transcend national boundaries and cannot be countered by countries acting independently.

During the opening ceremony, delivered by DCI Deputy Director John Onyango, Amin underscored the pivotal role of NCBs in securely exchanging vital criminal intelligence. This information includes data on wanted individuals, stolen travel documents and vehicles, as well as forensic records like fingerprints and DNA profiles.

Strengthening Intelligence Sharing and Cooperation

The mentorship programme seeks to build stronger professional ties among East African NCBs, promote increased intelligence sharing, and encourage greater utilization of INTERPOL’s global databases and secure communication platforms.

“When we share information, we share strength; when we cooperate, we deny criminals the opportunity to exploit our borders,” Amin stated, calling for joint investigations and coordinated operations across countries.

Responding to Evolving Criminal Networks

Amin noted that criminal networks are becoming more sophisticated, leveraging technology and exploiting jurisdictional gaps to operate beyond borders. He urged law enforcement agencies to adopt proactive, intelligence-led policing strategies and to continuously adapt to emerging threats, especially in cyber and financial crimes.

He also emphasized the need for ongoing specialised training and professional development for law enforcement personnel.

Kenya’s Commitment to Regional and International Partnerships

The programme aligns with INTERPOL’s broader goal of enhancing NCB capacities, which serve as vital links between national police agencies and the international policing community. Improved use of INTERPOL’s resources and enhanced cross-border coordination remain key to effective international crime fighting.

Kenya reaffirmed its dedication to strengthening regional, international, and bilateral partnerships to improve information sharing and coordinated law enforcement actions, recognizing that international cooperation is crucial to dismantling cross-border criminal networks.