What Is Interpol, and How Does It Work?
Introduction to Interpol
INTERPOL stands for the International Criminal Police Organization. It is an intergovernmental body that promotes worldwide police cooperation and crime control. Headquartered in Lyon, France, Interpol connects 196 member countries through National Central Bureaus (NCBs).
Interpol does not replace national police forces. Instead, it acts as a coordination platform, allowing law enforcement agencies to share information, issue alerts, and collaborate on cross-border investigations.
The History of Interpol
Early Foundations (1914–1923)
The idea of international police cooperation began at the International Criminal Police Congress in Monaco in 1914. However, World War I delayed its implementation.
In 1923, Dr. Johannes Schober organized a second congress in Vienna, which led to the formation of the International Criminal Police Commission (ICPC), the predecessor of Interpol.
Modern Development
Over time, the ICPC evolved into what is now Interpol, becoming the world’s largest international police organization.
What Is the Purpose of Interpol?
Interpol’s primary goal is to enhance international law enforcement cooperation by:
- Facilitating information sharing between countries
- Coordinating cross-border criminal investigations
- Supporting efforts to prevent terrorism, cybercrime, and drug trafficking
- Assisting in locating fugitives
Interpol focuses on three key areas of crime prevention:
- Terrorism
- Cybercrime
- Drug trafficking
How Interpol Operates
National Central Bureaus (NCBs)
Each member country operates a National Central Bureau (NCB). The NCB acts as the link between national law enforcement and Interpol’s General Secretariat.
Through these bureaus, countries share and access information stored in Interpol’s databases, including:
- Fingerprints
- DNA records
- Passport data
- Criminal profiles
Interpol’s I-24/7 Communication System
Interpol members connect through a secure communication network known as I-24/7. This system enables rapid exchange of criminal intelligence and global alerts.
Understanding Interpol Notices
Interpol issues color-coded alerts known as “Notices.” These are not international arrest warrants, but they serve as important international alerts.
Red Notice
A Red Notice is the most well-known alert. It requests the location and possible provisional arrest of a person pending extradition. It is not itself an arrest warrant.
Blue Notice
The Blue Notice serves the purpose of gathering more details about an individual who is part of a criminal investigation.
Yellow Notice
The Yellow Notice is issued to locate missing persons or identify individuals who are unable to identify themselves.
Black Notice
The Black Notice is utilized to gather information about unidentified bodies.
Orange Notice
Warns about imminent threats to public safety.
Green Notice
Warns about individuals likely to commit crimes in other countries.
Purple Notice
Used to share information about criminal methods or techniques.
Interpol’s Role in Global Crime Fighting
Interpol does not conduct arrests. It does not replace local police authorities. Its role is to:
- Issue alerts and notices
- Share intelligence and criminal data
- Coordinate international investigations
- Support cross-border operations
Interpol also organizes training programs to strengthen global policing capacity, especially in countries facing emerging threats.
How Interpol Operates in the UAE
The UAE is a member of Interpol and operates through its National Central Bureau.
Coordination With UAE Authorities
UAE authorities collaborate with Interpol in matters involving:
- Terrorism
- Drug trafficking
- Financial crime
- Cybercrime
- Organized crime
Interpol notices, including Red Notices, may trigger review by UAE authorities under domestic legal procedures.
Data Sharing and Global Cooperation
The UAE participates in Interpol’s secure data-sharing network, enabling information exchange about fugitives, stolen property, and criminal activity.
Interpol in Dubai
Dubai is a major financial and commercial hub. Due to its international connections, it has been involved in several high-profile international cases.
Interpol’s presence in Dubai highlights the importance of global cooperation in tackling:
- Organized crime
- Money laundering
- Drug trafficking
- Cross-border financial offenses
Notable Interpol Cases in Dubai
The Raffaele Imperiale Case
Raffaele Imperiale, linked to the Camorra criminal organization, was subject to an Interpol Red Notice. After years as a fugitive, he was arrested in Dubai and later extradited to Italy.
This case demonstrated the importance of coordinated international law enforcement.
Russian Money Laundering Investigation
Interpol assisted in tracking large-scale financial crimes involving cross-border money laundering operations. Cooperation between international authorities and UAE agencies played a significant role in addressing the matter.
Why Interpol Matters in International Law Enforcement
Interpol strengthens global security by:
- Connecting law enforcement agencies worldwide
- Enhancing intelligence sharing
- Supporting cross-border investigations
- Assisting in dismantling international criminal networks
Its effectiveness lies in coordination rather than enforcement authority.
When Legal Advice May Be Necessary
Although Interpol itself does not issue arrest warrants, Red Notices and extradition requests may lead to legal proceedings in the UAE.
If you are concerned about an Interpol notice or potential extradition issue, structured legal guidance is important.
🔗 Interpol & Extradition Legal Support in Dubai
Conclusion
Interpol plays a central role in international police cooperation. By facilitating information exchange, issuing notices, and coordinating investigations, it helps countries address crimes that cross national borders.
As global crime evolves, cooperation between international organizations and national authorities remains essential for maintaining security and justice worldwide.
