The Director of Public Prosecutions, Renson Ingonga has
emphasised the need for collaborative efforts and strategic approaches to
effectively combat transnational organised crime.
He noted that there is a need to combat the intricate
connections between drug trafficking and other forms of transnational organised
crime, as well as the severe threats these crimes pose to the region.
“Drug trafficking and transnational organised crime are
global phenomena with far-reaching social, health, economic, and political
repercussions,” he said.
“These illicit activities not only undermine development but
also generate enormous profits for criminal organizations, creating a
disturbing scenario that threatens state authorities and the legal economy.”
Ingonga spoke at the official opening of the workshop on
International and Regional Cooperation to Fight Organized Crime and Drug
Trafficking in Eastern Africa.
The event is organised by the European Union Action Against
Drugs and Organised Crime (EU-ACT) in partnership with the Eastern Africa
Association of Prosecutors (EAAP)
The DPP, who is also the president of the EAAP, expressed his
appreciation for the European Union's steadfast support.
He commended the EU’s unwavering commitment, relentless
efforts, and generosity in supporting the fight against transnational organized
crime and drug trafficking in the region.
The DPP noted that the workshop provides a crucial platform
for fostering partnerships and building bridges necessary to combat organised
crime effectively.
He highlighted that Kenya has significantly benefited from
the strategic partnership through initiatives such as the development of the
Inter-Agency Guidelines on Cooperation and Collaboration in the Investigation
and Prosecution of Terrorism and Terrorism Financing.
These guidelines, he noted, have enhanced joint
investigations and improved cooperation between the Office of the Director of
Public Prosecutions (ODPP)and law enforcement agencies.
Ingonga further reiterated that the collaboration between
the European Union and the EAAP would strengthen mutual ties.
He added that it would expedite the establishment of robust
international and regional cooperation mechanisms to combat transnational
organised crime.
This partnership, Ingonga noted, is a critical step towards achieving shared goals in the fight against these universal challenges.
