Cape Verde Appoints New Judicial Police Chief to Fight Crime
PRAIA, Cape Verde — Jacqueline Patrícia D’Oliveira Semedo was sworn in as the new National Director of Cape Verde’s Judicial Police (PJ) on Monday, pledging a “firm, responsible, and demanding” leadership style to dismantle drug trafficking rings and transnational criminal networks.
During the inauguration ceremony, Semedo emphasized that the fight against organized crime remains a top priority for the island nation. She called for a modernized police force that is “specialized, technologically capable, and seamlessly articulated with national and international partners.”
‘No Victim is Secondary’
While drug trafficking and organized crime are major focuses, Semedo assured the public that the PJ would not overlook crimes that impact daily life. She highlighted homicides, sexual offenses, cybercrime, and corruption as critical areas requiring an effective response.
“In the Judicial Police, no area is secondary because no victim is secondary,” Semedo stated. “There will be no hesitation on our part. We will act with firmness, professionalism, and absolute respect for the law.”
To achieve these goals, the new director advocated for increased investment in forensic and scientific resources, enhanced training for investigators, and more opportunities for international exchange programs.
Leadership Based on Merit
Minister of Justice Clóvis Silva, who presided over the swearing-in, noted that Semedo’s appointment aligns with the government’s strategy to bolster international cooperation against “major crime.” He acknowledged that Cape Verde faces growing challenges in combating weapons trafficking and cybercrime that it cannot tackle in isolation.
Silva also pointed out the significance of Semedo’s appointment as the third woman to lead the PJ. He described the move as a sign of Cape Verde’s “institutional maturity,” stressing that leadership positions in the country are awarded based on “merit and competence” rather than gender.
A Career Investigator
Semedo is a seasoned veteran within the force. A Level III criminal investigation coordinator, she previously served as the PJ’s Deputy National Director from 2016 to 2022. She succeeds Manuel António Livramento da Lomba, a public prosecutor who had led the institution since December 2023.
The new director concluded her remarks by promising to be a leader who stays close to her staff. “I want to be close to the services and the people, working so that the effort of every professional is recognized and valued,” she said.
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