Eva Wildi-Cortés, the head of the Federal Office of Police, emphasized the need for Switzerland to take strong and focused measures against organized crime. In a recent interview with NZZ am Sonntag, she discussed the possibility of reversing the burden of proof in money laundering cases. She noted that Italy already employs this principle, which requires individuals to demonstrate that their money originates from legal sources when there is suspicion. If they cannot provide such proof, the funds would be forfeited to the state.
When asked if she would consider implementing this in Switzerland, the head of Fedpol stated that the agency is continually assessing potential legal changes to enhance operational efficiency.
Regarding the rise in suspicious activity reports, she noted a "massive" increase. Reports submitted to the Money Laundering Reporting Office Switzerland (MROS) surged by over 25%, reaching 15,141 last year compared to 2023, as MROS revealed in early May. Wildi-Cortés mentioned that Fedpol has bolstered its resources in this area and is exploring automation to help alleviate some of the workload.
According to MROS, 92% of the reports originated from financial intermediaries within the banking sector. The head of Fedpol noted that the incidence of suspected illegal money flows involving cryptocurrencies is on the rise. Cryptocurrencies make it easier to conceal the source of funds. “Moreover, this sector is significantly less regulated than the traditional financial industry,” stated Wildi-Cortés. Fedpol has also bolstered its resources in this area.
A strategy is underway
“If we want to avoid the shootings and street violence seen in the Netherlands, Belgium, or Sweden, Switzerland must take action now,” emphasized the Fedpol chief. Fedpol is currently working diligently to formulate a strategy to combat organized crime in collaboration with the cantons, the Office of the Attorney General of Switzerland, and other authorities, aiming for completion by the end of the year. This mandate was granted to Fedpol in November of last year. At the same time, the fight against terrorism continues to be a top priority, according to Wildi-Cortés.
The head of Fedpol emphasized the importance of information sharing among the cantons to make progress. Specifically, she highlighted the need for information to be exchanged through the Polap police inquiry platform. The cantons and Fedpol are working to establish the necessary foundations "as quickly as possible," she stated, adding, "We aim to have a draft amendment to the constitution and law prepared by the end of this year."
