The conference concluded with recommendations to enhance regional efforts against transnational organized crime and terrorism, emphasizing the importance of international collaboration.

The 27th INTERPOL African Regional Conference took place from August 27 to 29 in Cape Town, bringing together over 200 law enforcement officials from 56 countries to address emerging crime threats and strengthen international police cooperation in Africa.

Police leaders, including South Africa’s Lieutenant General Fannie Masemola, highlighted the rapid evolution of transnational crime, such as drug trafficking, human trafficking, cybercrime, firearms smuggling, and illegal mining, stressing the need for regional cooperation through INTERPOL.

INTERPOL’s Vice President for Africa, Mohammed Dkhissi, underscored the critical role of frontline officers utilizing INTERPOL’s capabilities to improve regional safety and global security.

Delegates emphasized leveraging INTERPOL’s global expertise to fight cybercrime, including ransomware and online scams, expanding data exchange, and strengthening border controls with regional and international partners.

African police leaders addressed key security challenges such as cybercrime, terrorism, financial crimes, and environmental threats, aiming to improve coordinated responses.

The conference promoted the use of INTERPOL’s NEXUS platform for real-time operational coordination across borders to enhance border security.

High-profile attendees, including INTERPOL President Major General Ahmed Naser Al-Raisi, discussed strengthening partnerships, intelligence sharing, and legal cooperation to combat crime.

Acting Police Minister Firoz Cachalia highlighted the serious threat posed by transnational organized crime to peace, stability, and development across Africa and globally, calling for unified efforts.

Africa, representing nearly one-third of INTERPOL’s membership and housing four regional bureaus, plays a vital role in global security efforts and law enforcement cooperation.

The conference aims to improve Africa’s coordinated response to organized crime, protect borders, and address economic impacts, including illicit financial flows estimated at up to $80 billion annually.

In 2024, Africa increased police record sharing by 7%, with a 60% rise in positive query results, demonstrating its growing influence in international law enforcement.

A new INTERPOL African Committee was established during the conference to set regional priorities and guide crime prevention strategies.