On Monday 7th October 2024, representatives of the International Law Enforcement Academy (ILEA) met with the Chairperson Hon. Clifford Andre, and Vice-Chairperson Hon. Francois Adelaide, of the Defence and Security Committee (DSC). Leading the ILEA delegation was ILEA Program Director Mr. Derrick Tolliver, accompanied by Programmes Manager of International Narcotics Law (INL) Ms. Alisha Galegate and Administrative Assistant Ms. Neddy Nourice. Assistance was provided by Committee Secretary Mrs. Gillian Samson.
Hon. Andre welcomed the delegation and opened the meeting by outlining the mandate of the DSC namely, maintaining an oversight role on all defence forces in Seychelles, scrutinising budgetary allocations and spending, participating in forums relating to national security, and communicating all relevant matters to the House. Mr. Tolliver thanked Hon. Andre for the welcome, expressing that ILEA’s priority is deepening its relationships across Africa, particularly Seychelles. The main aims of the ILEA Program include advancing anti-crime efforts through capacity-building, spearheading democratic governance through the rule of law, and increasing social and political stability by combatting narcotics trafficking.
There are currently six Academies located in Ghana, Hungary, Thailand, Botswana, El Salvador, and New Mexico, each offering specialized courses throughout the year to address transnational organized crime such as wildlife trafficking, human trafficking, cybercrime, and money laundering, amongst others. Mr. Tolliver noted that the ILEA Program was looking to expand the involvement of Seychelles by increasing the number of trainees annually. Hon. Andre welcomed this initiative, remarking that the DSC would also be willing to participate in any forms of capacity-building with a focus on the legislative aspects of law enforcement. Mr. Tolliver indicated that such Executive Level Training Programmes are available, and further communications will be made through the US Embassy in Seychelles to discuss these opportunities.
Hon. Andre then thanked the delegation for the meeting, expressing his appreciation for the chance to learn more about the ILEA Program with hopes to continue such discussions in the near future.
