Global conference examines vehicle crime, criminal activity

INTERPOL recently hosted a conference designed to spur discussion regarding the latest vehicle crime investigation patterns, new law enforcement technologies available to law enforcement, and challenges in vehicle supply chain security.

Officials said the INTERPOL Global Conference on Vehicle Crime was organized in collaboration with Mexico’s Procuradoría General de le Republica (PGR) and aimed at boosting the global exchange of information and developing best practices.

“INTERPOL will continue to embrace its role as a global focal point for both law enforcement and the private sector to collaborate in order to disrupt organized criminal groups involved in the illicit trade of stolen motor vehicles,” José de Gracia, assistant director of INTERPOL’s Criminal Networks unit, said.

The effort involved 130 international experts from 30 countries around the world gathering for the meeting. In recent years, law enforcement agencies have seen a rapid evolution in the global vehicle crime landscape, as well as an increased convergence with other areas of organized crime.

INTERPOL officials said the session highlighted the need for increased cooperation between law enforcement agencies and the private sector to share information and technologies, modus operandi and case studies.

Stolen vehicles are frequently trafficked in order to finance and carry out activities, ranging from drug trafficking, arms dealing, people smuggling and international terrorism, per conference organizers.