News
Millions taken out of criminals pockets - Goggins
Date Posted: Tuesday 23 June 2009
Over £7 million of assets were seized last year by the law enforcement agencies from organised criminals in Northern Ireland.
Speaking before the launch of the Organised Crime Task Force (OCTF) Annual Report and Threat Assessment, Security Minister and Chairman of the OCTF Rt Hon Paul Goggins MP, gave details of the successes of the taskforce over the past year.
These included the seizure of £7.3 million of assets and £23 million of illegal drugs. Seizures also included over £2 million of counterfeit goods and almost one million litres of illicit fuel. 11 victims of human trafficking were rescued and a support package for victims of human trafficking was put in place.
The Minister congratulated the OCTF and its partner agencies for their dedication and professionalism which are making serious inroads into the fight against organised crime in Northern Ireland.
He said: "By taking millions of pounds from organised criminals the OCTF hits them where it hurts most, in their pockets. We are sending out a clear message that criminals will be pursued through the courts and their assets will be stripped from them.
"These criminals offer nothing to the wider community. They don't contribute to the social or economic fabric of the new Northern Ireland and the Organised Crime Task Force remains determined to confront their every action.
"I also want to congratulate all the agencies involved in the fight against these organised criminal gangs. Their dedication and commitment to confront the menace of organised crime is in stark contrast to those who would exploit the vulnerable in our society."
Notes to editors
- £7.3 million of assets were seized last year by the OCTF. This exceeded their target to recover £6.2million.
- A pilot scheme was launched in conjunction with Women's Aid and the Migrant Helpline to assist the victims of human trafficking. The victims are now offered a complete package of care services including shelter counselling medical care translation and legal services.
- The Organised Crime Task Force was established in September 2000 to provide strategic direction for a multi-agency approach to tackling organised crime. Chaired by the Security Minister, Paul Goggins, the Tack Force brings together representatives from Government, law enforcement and a wide range of other agencies. It is a forum where partner agencies can discuss problems, share information and agree priorities.
- For media enquiries and launch details contact Brendan Giffen on 07887 714991
