On February 3, 2025, the ASEANAPOL Secretariat had the privilege of hosting Ms. Rebecca Tan, Southeast Asia Bureau Chief of The Washington Post, for an in-depth discussion on transnational organized crime in Asia. The visit provided a valuable platform to exchange insights on the evolving threats posed by these crimes and ASEANAPOL’s pivotal role in addressing them.
Executive Director David Martinez Vinluan, alongside Director for Police Services Senior Superintendent Huntal Tambunan, underscored the ASEANAPOL Secretariat’s critical role in fostering coordination and collaboration among ASEANAPOL Member Countries (AMCs). They highlighted ongoing efforts in regional cooperation, intelligence sharing, and capacity-building initiatives aimed at combating organized crime. The discussion also explored ASEANAPOL’s contributions to transnational crime prevention within the region and its broader impact on global security efforts.
Executive Director Vinluan further elaborated on ASEANAPOL’s mission and vision, emphasizing the unified commitment of all 10 AMCs in confronting drug trafficking, human trafficking, cybercrime, terrorism, arms smuggling, and financial crimes. These complex challenges demand a coordinated response, with each AMC playing an active role in fortifying regional security.
Through enhanced intelligence sharing, joint operations, and targeted capacity-building programs, AMCs continue to strengthen law enforcement capabilities. By leveraging cutting-edge technology, such as digital forensics and artificial intelligence, they improve crime detection and evidence gathering. Additionally, policy development and legal cooperation reinforce extradition, asset recovery, and cross-border enforcement, ensuring a unified front against transnational crime. ASEANAPOL remains steadfast in its mission to build a safer and more secure ASEAN, fostering regional and global partnerships to uphold security and justice.
Together, we remain committed to keeping the region safe.
