Ethiopia Reiterates Commitment to Combating Transnational Crimes.

Addis Ababa: Ethiopia's Federal Police Deputy Commissioner General Melaku Fenta underscored Ethiopia's unwavering commitment to fighting transnational crimes by improving investigations, prosecutions, and information-sharing across borders. The deputy commissioner general made the remarks at a high-level meeting convened today on fighting transitional crimes and related issues in Addis Ababa.According to Ethiopian News Agency, as part of the African Union's All of Africa Initiative, the meeting aimed to reduce the incidence of human trafficking, enhance collaboration, and develop shared strategies to combat migration-related crimes and associated criminal networks. Stating the efforts being exerted to this effect, Deputy Commissioner General Melaku explained that Ethiopia has made significant strides in preventing and investigating transnational crimes as well as protecting victims, and apprehending wanted criminals.This meeting has further enhanced our mechanisms for information-sharing and strengthened our collective resolve, he added. Melaku emphasized Ethiopia's proactive role in protecting victims of human trafficking and smuggling, ensuring robust law enforcement measures.Hervé Jamet, Technical Director of the Regional Operational Centre in Khartoum (ROCK), underlined the critical need for regional and international cooperation to combat human trafficking and migrant smuggling. Strengthening the nexus between police and judicial systems is vital in addressing such crimes effectively, he noted. He added the discussions have fostered collaboration and led to actionable recommendations to enhance the criminal justice system.Despite progress, Jamet acknowledged ongoing challenges, particularly financial constraints that have strained operations. However, he expressed optimism about the future that this program's primary goal is to encourage information-sharing and action against human trafficking and smuggling. With continued support from all stakeholders, we can chart a new course and make ROCK an exem plary initiative for countries of origin, transit, and destination, he stressed.