© EU
The European Anti-Fraud Office (OLAF) has successfully concluded a two-phase training with the Inspection Générale d'État (IGE) of the Islamic Republic of Mauritania, aimed at strengthening collaboration in fight against fraud and smuggling.The two-phase training began with an introductory online training in November 2024, which provided foundational knowledge of risk analysis and anti-fraud strategies. This was followed by an on-site training at the IGE headquarters in Nouakchott, Mauritania on 7-8 January 2025. The session, led by OLAF and supported by external experts from Belgian Customs, offered both theoretical and hands-on field experience, allowing participants to work alongside Mauritanian Customs and relevant national administrations in real operational settings. Throughout the training, participants focused on improving risk analysis techniques and procedures related to the movement of goods and passengers. This included the establishment, monitoring and updating of customs risk profiles and the integration of these into ongoing investigations. The training also emphasised the development of operational synergies by clearly defining the roles and responsibilities of each national administration involved and enhancing communication channels both within Mauritania and with OLAF. Additionally, the session promoted the strengthening of information sharing, intelligence exchange and the adoption of best practices to support a more enhanced joint action against fraud and smuggling. This joint initiative represents further effort in OLAF’s broader strategy to foster international cooperation and enhance operational effectiveness in combating cross-border illicit activities. The initiative, framed in the Administrative Cooperation Agreement (ACA) between OLAF and IGE, underscores the commitment of both parties to protect financial interests and improve customs controls. ACAs are an important instrument for OLAF to improve cooperation with investigative bodies and other partners in fighting fraud. They outline practical ways of increasing operational cooperation, for example by designating contact points and encouraging operational exchanges.
Details
Publication date17 January 2025AuthorEuropean Anti-Fraud Office
News typeOLAF news article
