UNODC promotes cooperation between Brazil and Mozambique on transnational crime in riverine areas

Brasilia, September 10, 2024 – The UNODC Global Maritime Crime Programme (GMCP) organised another international exchange on river operations and ship pilotage from 13 to 26 August at the Environmental Police Integration and Training Centre (CIAPA) of the Federal Police in Manaus, Amazonia State, Brazil.

This year, the program, which is the third of its kind, welcomed twenty-five officers from Brazil, Colombia, Mozambique and Peru. Five officers from three Mozambican law enforcement agencies: the Navy, the Maritime Police and the Maritime Institute had the opportunity to participate in this international exchange.

The main objective of the training was to promote South-South and tripartite cooperation, with emphasis on improving the operational and tactical capacities of law enforcement agencies to combat transnational criminal activities such as deforestation, drug trafficking and other illicit activities.

Brazil, with its vast and complex river systems, including the Amazon, the largest in the world by volume, has developed advanced capabilities in riverine law enforcement. The Amazon Basin, with its dense network of rivers and tributaries, presents unique challenges that require specialized skills in navigation, ship operations, and combating transnational organized crime.

Mozambique, although different in its geographical context, faces similar challenges. The country is home to important rivers such as the Zambezi, Rovuma and Limpopo, which are vital for transport and economic activities, but are also vulnerable to exploitation by criminal groups.

The training was designed to address the unique challenges faced by riverine law enforcement, with a specific focus on detecting and responding to deforestation and associated illegal economies. The curriculum was comprehensive and focused on several key areas including: river interdiction, vessel boarding, operating various types of vessels, knots and moorings, orientation and navigation, and combating drug trafficking and environmental crime.

“The training was exceptional, with skilled instructors and a focus on hands-on practicality. This approach allowed us to quickly adapt to operating boats and two-stroke outboard engines, and to effectively board vessels in the search for drugs and weapons linked to transnational crimes,” said an officer of the Mozambican Navy.