By Neville Oduor
President William Ruto yesterday urged prosecuting agencies worldwide to unite in addressing the rising tide of transnational organized crime during the 23rd Commonwealth Heads of Prosecuting Agencies Conference (HOPAC) in Mombasa.
Speaking at the event, Ruto emphasized the need for regional and international mechanisms to tackle complex criminal tactics, including the use of encrypted social media and cryptocurrency.
Addressing a diverse audience of legal experts and prosecutors from across the Commonwealth, Ruto highlighted the evolving nature of crime.
“The use of complex criminal tactics, such as sophisticated encrypted social media platforms and cryptocurrency to finance transnational organized crime, makes it complicated for any single agency or country to confront these ever-evolving risks in isolation,” he said.
The conference, held at a prestigious venue in Mombasa County, brought together leaders to strategize on enhancing justice delivery.
Ruto also advocated for technological innovation in the criminal justice system.
“We must leverage technology to enhance the efficiency and delivery of justice through the criminal justice system,” he stated, calling on prosecutors to embrace tools like artificial intelligence to combat crimes that transcend borders.
The President’s remarks align with his administration’s focus on modernizing Kenya’s legal framework amid growing cybercrime and terrorism threats.
The three-day conference, which began on June 11, features discussions on collaboration through platforms like the Commonwealth Cyber Declaration Programme. Attendees included representatives from the United Kingdom, Australia, and several African nations.
Local reactions were mixed, with some praising the initiative, while others questioned its feasibility given resource constraints.
Ruto concluded with a call to action: “We urge prosecutory agencies across the globe to develop regional and international mechanisms to effectively address complex emerging threats collaboratively.”
The conference continues today, with plans to finalize a joint resolution to strengthen global prosecutorial efforts.