Cape Verde Military Gains Interpol Access for Maritime Defense
In a major boost to national security, Cape Verde’s Judicial Police (PJ) and the Armed Forces have signed a strategic agreement granting the military direct access to Interpol’s global criminal databases. The move is designed to create a unified front against the rising tide of transnational crime in the Atlantic archipelago.
A Digital Shield Against Transnational Crime
Signed Monday in the capital city of Praia, the memorandum of understanding connects the Maritime Security Operations Center (Cosmar) with Interpol’s National Central Bureau. This integration allows military personnel to consult and record critical data on wanted fugitives, stolen travel documents, illicit weaponry, and biometric information in real-time.
“This memorandum gives the Armed Forces access to a highly qualified and vital system for international organizations,” stated Manuel da Lomba, Director of the PJ. He emphasized that the partnership is essential for safeguarding Cape Verdean waters, which remain a target for sophisticated criminal networks.
“Small Size is No Protection”
Despite Cape Verde’s small geographical footprint, officials warned against complacency. Da Lomba noted that criminals are constantly seeking the most efficient ways to infiltrate states, regardless of their size. He identified drug trafficking, arms smuggling, illegal fishing, and migrant trafficking as the primary threats facing the nation.
The Director noted that the Interpol system has already proven its worth, leading to “significant arrests” both within Cape Verde and abroad. By extending this tool to the Armed Forces, the government aims to close security gaps that criminals might exploit.
Enhancing Maritime Surveillance
For the Armed Forces, the move represents a “qualitative leap” in operational capability. Rear Admiral Manuel António Pereira Semedo, Chief of Staff of the Armed Forces, highlighted that the access would revolutionize how the military monitors and anticipates threats within Cape Verde’s vast maritime territory.
“The sharing of information is an indispensable instrument for coordinated and effective state action,” Semedo said. He added that the agreement not only strengthens domestic defense but also solidifies Cape Verde’s reputation as an “active and credible partner” in the global security community.
The agreement took effect immediately following the ceremony. Operations will be jointly coordinated by the Judicial Police National Directorate and the Armed Forces General Staff to ensure seamless data integration and rapid response to maritime threats.
Image: Pexels – Andrew Cutajar
