Police Powers and Organised Crime in New Zealand
The Chair of the Ministerial Advisory Group on Organised Crime, Steve Symon, highlights the need for enhanced police powers to monitor bank accounts and seize suspects’ assets effectively. Current laws allow only limited asset seizures, with less than five percent of $1.6 billion in criminal profits being confiscated annually. Symon urges bold actions to counter the growing sophistication of organised crime.
Collaboration and Legislative Changes
The advisory group, established to boost cross-government responses, recommends stronger asset recovery frameworks and improved investigative powers. Engaging with multiple agencies and the private sector, the group’s monthly reports aim to reduce the attractiveness of the country to transnational criminals. Enhancing cash controls and financial intelligence are seen as pivotal steps.
Key Takeaways:
- Strengthen asset recovery frameworks to prevent criminal asset retention.
- Enhance cooperation between law enforcement and financial institutions.
- Expand legislative measures to curb money laundering and organised crime.
For more details, visit the original RNZ article.
Discussion: What measures do you think Nigeria can adopt to effectively combat organised crime? Share your thoughts below.
