The nexus between terrorism and organized crime is increasingly threatening global security. The lack of universally accepted definitions for their intersection exacerbates the challenge of collecting and analyzing relevant data, which is further compounded by existing limitations in resources and infrastructure.
West Africa is particularly affected by the impact of this nexus. In the case of Benin, the intersection of terrorism and organized crime is most apparent in activities such as illicit arms, drugs and fuel trafficking, cattle theft, among other things.
As part of their efforts to ensure accountability for these crimes, criminal justice and law enforcement officials need to obtain admissible evidence. However, they are faced with several challenges during the process, especially as it relates to information and communications technologies and the Internet. As such, there is a need to build capacity of officials to conduct Internet-based investigations and handling of digital evidence in conformity with legal procedures and chain of custody requirements. To achieve this goal, officials need to be equipped with specialized skills and adequate technical equipment to support the proper collection, analysis and storage of evidence.
In this context, and as part of the project on “Strengthening capacity to address the nexus between terrorism and organized crime in Africa”, UNODC and UNICRI jointly organized a national training workshop for Benin on online investigations and electronic evidence in Cotonou on 25-28 June 2024.
During the four-day event, participants analyzed and discussed various aspects related to online investigations, including the legal framework, regulations for conducting cyber investigations, and discussions on forensic protocols, emphasizing the traceability and admissibility of digital evidence. Participants also examined how improper processing or examination can alter, damage, or destroy such evidence. Additionally, to enhance their practical understanding and skills, participants engaged in practical exercises on open-source intelligence (OSINT), including data collection techniques and methods for searching individuals on social networks, IP address identification, as well as geo-location strategies.
Recognizing the modality in which terrorist and organized crime groups operate, the workshop strengthened participants’ knowledge on different forensic analysis techniques that ensure reliability and credibility, fortifying justice and ensuring fair procedures.
The activity was funded by the United Nations Peace and Development Trust Fund.
