Global Investigations

In our modern world, it is becoming increasingly more common for investigations by law enforcement agencies to span across multiple jurisdictions. This is because the expansion of multinational corporations and global trade has increased the complexity of financial transactions and business operations.

Law enforcement agencies are highly motivated to identify and prosecute conduct of this nature due to the significant impact it has on community safety and the economy. This does not mean that they are getting it right all the time. They make assumptions and are driven by a poor understanding of what actually happened.

Due to the interconnectedness of the financial markets and supply chains, financial crimes and other transnational offences can have global repercussions. This has been particularly evident in the impacts seen by cybercrime. Countries are increasingly collaborating through international agreements, treaties, and organisations to tackle global crime. This cooperation facilitates the sharing of information, resources, and expertise necessary for effective global investigations.

Law enforcement agencies have access to sophisticated monitoring and data analysis platforms. They can track and investigate international financial transactions, communications, and other activities on a scale that they have not previously. Mountains of data can often lead to the wrong conclusions.

Further, to disincentivise businesses operating illegally from offshore locations, governments and regulatory bodies are tightening compliance requirements for businesses operating internationally. This scrutiny aims to prevent financial crimes, corruption, and other illegal activities that can have far-reaching effects.

International organisations like the Financial Action Task Force (FATF) and INTERPOL are pushing for more robust global investigations to combat financial crimes and other illegal activities that have global implications.

What kind of offences require global investigations?

The types of offences which lend themselves to Global Investigations include:

• White collar crimes – which arise out of transnational business arrangements such as:
  
  • Tax fraud
  • Insider trading
  • Embezzlement
• Transnational crime – which arise from crimes that are committed over multiple jurisdictions such as:
  
  • Bribery and corruption of a foreign national
  • Cybercrime
  • Drug trafficking and importations
  • Terrorism

What agencies are involved in global investigations?

Several Australian government agencies are involved in Global Investigations. Each has a role to play in addressing international and transnational crime.

The Australian Federal Police (AFP) handle a wide range of international criminal matters. The Australian Border Force (ABF) play an important role in managing border security and customs matters. There may be other agencies involved depending on the nature of the crime being investigated, such as the ATO if the matter relates to tax fraud, or the Department of Home affairs if there is a risk of national security or a cyber security risk.

There is significant crossover and cooperation between agencies to combat international and cross-jurisdictional crime.

If you are involved in a global investigation

We have highly specialised lawyers in this field who have established global networks. This is an incredible advantage when dealing with cross-jurisdictional matters. We are able to handle the most complex investigations and can utilise these connections to build your defence.

In recent times, we have travelled to China and to Papua New Guinea to obtain statements from witnesses in relation to foreign bribery allegations.

We know what is effective in developing a strong defence against allegations and we have the ability to carry out whatever is required for the case.

Get expert advice from lawyers at Doogue + George Defence Lawyers.