Intelligence-Led Policing (ILP) as A Strategic Planning Resource in the Fight against Transnational Organized Crime (TOC)

Abstract

With the advent of modern communication technologies and the global expansion of criminal enterprises across national and international borders, law enforcement agencies (LEAs) can no longer operate in an environment focused solely on addressing localised and 'minor' crime. The nature, complexity and volume of criminal challenges now faced by LEAs require a fundamental shift in their methodologies and approaches (Ratcliffe, 2003; 2008a; 2008b;Ratcliffe & Sheptycki, 2009)-one which recognises the importance of the use of intelligence not just as an evidentiary gathering tool but as a strategic planning resource, providing vital guidance for the deployment of enforcement strategies and resources. In the fight against transnational organized crime, where the communication between criminals and network associates presents itself as a key vulnerability, the ability of law enforcement agencies to utilise intelligence gathering tools such as communication interception technology is paramount. This paper explores the application of intelligence-led policing (ILP) as a strategic planning resource in the fight against transnational organized crime. It argues that through theimplementation of an intelligence-led policing model, law enforcement agencies can fully exploit the availability of tools such as communication interception technology. To do this, it considers the structure of transnational criminal enterprises and their vulnerability through communication, the role of intelligence-led policing, the limitations posed by legislative and operational restrictions placed on intelligence gathering and the need for a cultural shift in attitude towards the collection, analysis and use of intelligence. The paper contends that through an intelligence-led framework, law enforcement agencies will be able to capitalise on the use of intelligence to cause maximum disruption to criminal activities, for without it they will be unable to combat the growth of transnational organized crime.