Cyprus police enhance financial crime fighting with FBI training

Cyprus police are receiving specialized training to tackle financial crimes, including money laundering and sanctions evasion, with significant assistance from the U.S. Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), according to a report by Kathimerini's Panayiotis Rougalas. This collaboration is part of an ongoing partnership between the Cyprus Ministry of Justice and the FBI, aimed at strengthening efforts to detect and prosecute illegal financial activities.

Chief of Police Themistos Arnaoutis announced that Cypriot officers, who have long attended FBI National Academy programs, are now receiving additional training focused on economic crimes. This includes courses for members of the Economic Crime Investigation Subdivision, which is being enhanced with more specialized instruction on financial matters.

The cooperation between the two agencies formalized in a memorandum of understanding last April is designed to create a stronger framework for addressing money laundering, sanctions violations, and other economic crimes. This initiative reflects Cyprus’ commitment to improving its ability to tackle these complex issues, which have become increasingly significant on the global stage.

The support from the FBI and the specialized training are seen as key steps in ensuring that Cypriot law enforcement is equipped with the necessary skills to respond effectively to financial crimes.

In related news, the Cyprus Ministry of Justice presented its 2025 budget, which includes a 9% increase, totaling 493.5 million euros. The police force will receive the largest share of the budget, absorbing 77% or 277.4 million euros. This funding increase is part of Cyprus’ broader effort to bolster law enforcement capabilities in the face of rising financial crime.