Ruto calls for strong global partnerships in fight against transnational organised crime
He noted that crimes such as terrorism, money laundering, or human trafficking transcend borders and demand united, well-coordinated responses
President William Ruto has reiterated his commitment to strengthening international partnerships in the fight against Transnational Organised Crime, Money Laundering, Terrorism, and Human Trafficking.
Speaking during the closing of the 23rd Commonwealth Heads of Prosecuting Agencies Conference in Mombasa, Ruto underscored the growing complexity of Transnational Crime, noting that perpetrators are exploiting technological advances, encrypted digital platforms, and cross-border financial networks to fuel illicit activity.
“We live in a world where the threat of Transnational Organised Crime continues to grow in scale and sophistication,” said President Ruto. “Whether it’s terrorism, money laundering, or human trafficking, these threats transcend borders and demand united, well-coordinated responses.”
“The use of complex criminal tactics, such as sophisticated encrypted social media platforms and cryptocurrency to finance transnational organised crime, makes it complicated for any single agency or country to confront these ever-evolving risks in isolation. It is through joint investigations, shared intelligence, and robust legal cooperation that we can dismantle criminal networks,” he said.
Ruto also called for the harmonisation of legal frameworks, stronger asset forfeiture regimes, and enhanced cross-border collaboration to neutralise criminal enterprises.
“We must also leverage technology to enhance the efficiency and delivery of justice through the criminal justice system,” he added.
President Ruto highlighted Kenya’s experience with terrorism, citing several major attacks, including the 1998 US Embassy bombing, the 2013 Westgate Mall siege, and the 2015 Garissa University massacre.
He noted that two individuals were recently convicted in connection with the 2019 DusitD2 complex attack, with sentencing expected on June 19.
From 2021 to 2024, Kenya recorded 720 cases related to Human Trafficking and illegal migration, alongside 30 cases of money laundering.
Director of Public Prosecutions Renson Ingonga echoed the President’s sentiments, emphasising the importance of partnership, technology, and human rights in addressing the threats.
“The theme of this conference is ‘Building Partnerships through International Cooperation in the Fight Against Money Laundering, Terrorism, Terrorism Financing, and Transnational Organised Crimes not just aspirational. It is foundational to global justice,” Ingonga said.
The DPP also urged delegates to turn conference commitments into practical reforms including legislation, training, and investment in capacity building.
