The FBI and the State Department are helping to lead a global law enforcement forum on diamond trafficking, illegal trade and threat financing which will run until Thursday.The FBI said Tuesday the Europol-hosted forum will focus on the use of diamonds for trade-based money laundering, crime financing and other illegal purposes.
“Europol is interested in this topic from several angles – robbery crimes, money laundering, and terrorist financing activities – due to the high value and portability of diamonds,” said Wil van Gemert, Europol deputy director.
“Precious stones and gold are still readily liquid and moveable assets that can be easily traded and transported over borders.”
The three-day event is co-sponsored by the World Customs Organization and will bring together senior law enforcement and customs officials; regulatory bodies; and anti-money laundering and private sector experts, the FBI added.
Stephen Richardson, FBI assistant director for the criminal investigative division, said the forum aims to support cooperation and information sharing among global law enforcement partners to address illegal trade that funds criminal activity.
The forum looks to facilitate law enforcement partnerships to help identify, dismantle and disrupt criminal networks associated with the illicit diamond trade, FBI noted.
