Manama: General Shaikh Rashid bin Abdullah Al Khalifa, Minister of Interior, issued a statement marking the International Day of Police Cooperation, emphasizing the vital role of international police collaboration in addressing cross-border crime and related challenges. The statement underscores the Kingdom of Bahrain's commitment to participating in global security cooperation to promote international peace and security.
According to Bahrain News Agency, the Interior Ministry is actively developing international security collaborations in line with directives from His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa and with the support of His Royal Highness Prince Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa, the Crown Prince and Prime Minister. The Ministry highlights that crime has transcended national borders, evolving in scope and nature due to technological advancements and communication networks. This evolution necessitates enhanced joint security efforts and the exchange of information and expertise to combat criminal gangs and apprehend fugitives effectively.
The Interior Ministry is strengthening its ties with both brotherly and friendly nations, leveraging the international cooperation framework provided by the International Criminal Police Organisation (Interpol). This partnership facilitates swift information exchange, access to wanted individuals, support for joint security operations, and the enhancement of national capabilities to address international crimes.
The Directorate of International Affairs and Interpol at the General Directorate of Anti-Corruption and Economic and Electronic Security has successfully handed over 11 internationally wanted individuals to requesting countries in 2026 and received 19 wanted individuals who had evaded justice. This achievement underscores the effectiveness of international cooperation in law enforcement.
In combating drug-related crimes, the General Directorate of Criminal Investigation and Forensic Science shared 65 pieces of information with nine countries, aiding joint efforts to counter drug smuggling and trafficking networks. Additionally, the Financial Intelligence National Centre has bolstered cooperation and information exchange in the fight against money laundering and terrorist financing, receiving 49 requests and issuing 30, alongside 37 requests through other cooperative channels. These efforts significantly contribute to international endeavors to combat financial crimes and the financing of illegal activities.
International police cooperation is pivotal not only in pursuing offenders but also in protecting victims, locating missing persons, recovering stolen property, combating cybercrime, and addressing organized crime forms. This cooperation directly impacts community security and safety.
The rapid evolution of crime commission methods necessitates continuous development in police work tools, modern technologies, artificial intelligence applications, and data analysis. These advancements enhance the speed and accuracy of information processing, supporting search and investigation operations within the framework of strengthened security cooperation and coordination.
On this occasion, the Interior Ministry expresses its appreciation for the outstanding efforts of the International Criminal Police Organisation (Interpol) in supporting police agencies globally, enhancing information exchange, security coordination, and developing international cooperation mechanisms to combat organized and cross-border crime.
The Ministry reaffirms the Kingdom of Bahrain's ongoing support for international efforts to bolster police cooperation and collaborate with allied nations to advance expertise exchange and coordinate joint security operations. These endeavors aim to address security challenges, enhance international security and peace, and cultivate safer, more secure communities.