LYONS, France (CMC) – The international Criminal Police Organization (INTERPOL) is urging the Caribbean and other developing nations to maximize the use of its tools and services to fight crimes against children.
In a report, INTERPOL said crimes against children “tend to be local crimes with the vast majority taking place within the home or family circle.”
It, however, said there is an “international angle,” pointing out that Internet crimes against children are “facilitated by the Internet, the increased use of which in recent years has led to a huge rise in offending.
“Not only can offenders distribute and access child abuse material more easily, but they can also come into direct contact with children – via chatrooms and social networking sites,” the statement said.
INTERPOL said it runs a project in conjunction with Internet Access Service Providers to block access to child abuse material online.
In addition, it said “sex tourism”, involves “the abuse of children in developing countries by people who travel there.
“The relative wealth of the offender coupled with lack of understanding or effective legislation means that the abuse of children is easier in these countries,” said INTERPOL, adding that this type of crime is linked to child trafficking, organised crime and murder.
“These types of crimes represent a huge challenge for police worldwide and require specialized skills and increased resources,” INTERPOL said.
The international police organisation said it provides training and promotes best practice to police in member countries in the Caribbean and other places, stating that it brings together experts in its Specialists Group on Crimes against Children.
Formed in 1992, this group consists of a number of sub-groups dealing with particular issues and chaired by investigators from around the world.
In addition, INTERPOL said it works closely with many other agencies, both governmental and non-governmental, in this area, by facilitating training programmes and other projects worldwide.
