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INTERPOL: The International Criminal Police Organization

The International Criminal Police Organization (INTERPOL) is a global intergovernmental body dedicated to facilitating international police cooperation and enhancing security controls. As the world’s largest international police organization, it is headquartered in Lyon, France, supported by seven regional bureaus and a National Central Bureau (NCB) in each of its 196 member states. Founded on September 7, 1923, INTERPOL provides investigative support, expertise, and training to law enforcement agencies worldwide.

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Scope and Mandate

The organization focuses on three primary pillars of transnational crime: terrorism, cybercrime, and organized crime. Its expansive mandate covers nearly every category of offense, including:

  • Crimes against humanity and political corruption.

  • Drug production and trafficking.

  • Intellectual property theft and white-collar crime.

  • Child exploitation and human trafficking.

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Contrary to popular belief, INTERPOL is not a supranational law enforcement agency. Its staff do not possess the authority to conduct arrests. Instead, the organization functions as an administrative link and a communication hub, providing critical database access and technical assistance to the law enforcement agencies of its member states.

Data Capabilities and Global Connectivity

While national agencies maintain their own records, INTERPOL’s centralized databases in Lyon allow for the tracking of criminals and crime trends across borders. These databases include:

  • Authorized collections of fingerprints and facial images.

  • DNA profiles and international "wanted" lists.

  • Stolen and Lost Travel Documents (SLTD): A database containing over 12 million records, essential for border security.

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To ensure seamless coordination, INTERPOL utilizes I-24/7, a secure, encrypted global communication network. This system provides member states with constant access to databases. While NCBs are the primary access points, many countries have extended this connectivity to frontline locations such as airports and border crossings.

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INTERPOL Notices

The organization issues specialized Notices to alert member states about crimes and criminals. While most are reserved for police use, excerpts may be made public at the request of the issuing country.

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  • Red Notice: To locate and arrest persons wanted for prosecution or to serve a sentence.

  • Blue Notice: To collect additional information regarding an individual’s identity, location, or activities in relation to a criminal investigation.

  • Green Notice: To provide warnings about individuals considered a potential threat to public safety.

  • Yellow Notice: To help locate missing persons (often minors) or identify those unable to identify themselves.

  • Black Notice: To seek information on unidentified bodies.

  • Orange Notice: To warn of an event, person, or object representing a serious and imminent threat to public safety.

  • Purple Notice: To share information on modi operandi, procedures, and devices used by criminals.

  • Silver Notice (Pilot Phase): To identify and track assets derived from criminal activities.

  • INTERPOL–UN Security Council Special Notice: Issued for entities and individuals subject to UN sanctions.

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Crisis Response

In the event of an international disaster, a major terrorist attack, or a high-profile assassination, INTERPOL can deploy an Incident Response Team (IRT) to provide on-site expertise and support.

External Resources

For further information regarding global police cooperation and safety initiatives, please contact us or visit the official website: www.interpol.int

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