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September 18, 2024Interpol, the International Criminal Police Organization, is renowned for its role in the global fight against crime. It unites the efforts of law enforcement agencies from various countries, facilitating swift information exchange and coordination of investigations. However, being wanted by Interpol is a serious matter that requires immediate and informed legal action. In this article, we will explore what it means to be wanted by Interpol, the potential implications for your life, and how seeking professional advice from Interpol lawyers can assist you.
What is Interpol?
Interpol, established in 1923, is an international organisation that comprises 194 member states. Its primary objective is to facilitate cooperation among law enforcement agencies worldwide to prevent and investigate international crimes. Interpol does not possess its own police forces or the authority to make arrests, but it can issue so-called “notices”, including Red Notices, which are requests to member countries for the identification and arrest of wanted persons for subsequent extradition.
What does it mean to be wanted by Interpol?
When someone is sought by Interpol, it usually means that a Red Notice has been issued against them. An Interpol Red Notice is not an international arrest warrant per se, but rather a request to law enforcement agencies in all member states for the temporary detention of an individual suspected or accused of committing a crime, with the aim of their subsequent extradition. Red Notices can be issued at the request of Interpol member states and relate to various criminal offences such as corruption, fraud, terrorism, and other serious crimes. These notices are entered into Interpol’s databases, which are accessible to law enforcement agencies worldwide.
Legal and personal consequences
Being wanted by Interpol can have serious consequences for one’s personal and professional life. First and foremost, it can limit your freedom of movement. Many countries will immediately detain an individual if they are listed in Interpol’s database under a Red Notice. This can also lead to restrictions on opening bank accounts, entering into contracts, and participating in international transactions, as banks and financial institutions often check their clients for such notices.
Furthermore, a Red Notice can have a significant impact on your reputation, as information about wanted individuals may be accessible not only to law enforcement agencies but also to private companies and organisations. In the event of a data leak, such information could become known to the general public, which would damage your business reputation and personal relationships.
Immediate Steps to Take if You Are Wanted by Interpol
Seeking legal representation: if you discover that an Interpol Red Notice has been issued against you, your first course of action should be to seek assistance from a qualified solicitor specialising in international criminal law and human rights protection. International sanctions lawyer can help you understand the basis of the notification, assess its legality, and prepare a defence strategy.
Submitting a complaint to the Interpol CCF: The Commission for the Control of Interpol’s Files (CCF) is an independent body responsible for reviewing complaints against actions taken by Interpol, including the issuance of Red Notices. Your solicitor can assist in preparing and submitting a complaint to the CCF if you believe that a notice has been issued improperly or on the basis of false allegations. In your complaint, you can state that the notice violates your rights to freedom of movement and to a fair trial, as enshrined in international legal instruments such as the European Convention on Human Rights.
Avoiding international travel: Until your Red Notice has been revoked or cancelled, it’s crucial to avoid any international travel. Entry into any country that is a member of Interpol could result in your immediate detention and the initiation of extradition proceedings. Even transiting through an airport could be risky, as the notice might be activated upon passing through border control.
Defence against extradition: If you’ve been detained under an Interpol Red Notice, the next step is to defend against extradition to the country that has requested your arrest. Extradition is the process of transferring an individual accused or convicted of a crime from one country to another for trial or to serve a sentence. However, not all countries automatically comply with extradition requests.
Protection against extradition
Within the framework of international law, there are various legal grounds for refusing extradition, including:
Risk of human rights violations: According to international treaties, such as the UN Convention against Torture and Other Cruel, Inhuman or Degrading Treatment or Punishment, extradition cannot proceed if there is a risk that the individual would be subjected to torture, inhumane treatment, or an unfair trial in the requesting country.
The political nature of the charges: Countries may refuse extradition if the charges against an individual are politically motivated. In accordance with international law, political crimes are not subject to extradition.
Double jeopardy: extradition is only possible if the act for which the person is sought is criminally punishable in both countries.
How Interpol Red Notice lawyer can assist you?
A solicitor specialising in cases related to Interpol Red Notices can provide invaluable assistance in protecting your rights. They will be able to:
Contest the legality of the notice: if the notice was issued in violation of Interpol procedures or on the basis of false accusations, a solicitor can initiate the process of its cancellation through the CCF;
Represent your interests in court: if you have been detained under a Red Notice, a solicitor will represent your interests during legal proceedings aimed at preventing extradition, ensuring the protection of your rights in accordance with international law.
Offer advice on migration and asylum issues: if you’re facing the threat of unfair persecution in your home country, a solicitor can assist you in applying for political asylum or another form of international protection.
Being wanted by Interpol is a serious challenge that requires immediate and well-thought-out actions. It’s important to remember that having a Red Notice against you does not automatically mean arrest or extradition. If you find yourself in trouble, consult our lawyers to devise a sound defence strategy. Our team will help you contest the notice and protect your rights on the international stage.
