The INCB provides Mexican experts with training on the use of intelligence exchange tools to effectively respond to the threats posed by dangerous substances
Mexico City, April 17, 2024 - In a concerted effort to bolster national security and combat the trafficking of dangerous and controlled substances, the International Narcotics Control Board (INCB) GRIDS Programme and the Precursors Control Section co-organized a training session for officers in Mexico. The training, held on April 16 and 17, 2024, at the Center for Naval Studies in Health Sciences (CENCIS), in Mexico City, was attended by 24 officers from the Navy (SEMAR), the Federal Commission for the Protection against Sanitary Risks (COFEPRIS), the National Customs Agency of Mexico (ANAM), and the Criminal Investigation Agency (CFIC).
During the opening ceremony, Vice Admiral CG Daniel Escobedo Escobedo of SEMAR emphasized "the importance of collaboration and teamwork", describing the training as "an example of what can be achieved when a group of people unite to achieve a common goal". On the other hand, Ambassador Aureny Aguirre O'Sunza, Director General of Multilateral Strategy attached to the Undersecretary for Multilateral Affairs and Human Rights of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, stated that "this training will provide Mexican experts with the opportunity to improve their capacity in the use of INCB intelligence tools, as well as to develop networks and operational capabilities for international cooperation on hazardous substances. It will also strengthen the capacities of the Mexican State to respond effectively to the threats posed by hazardous substances that are not under international control".
Photo: Moment from the training
This collaborative initiative facilitated knowledge sharing and capacity building related to dangerous substances and the secure exchange of real-time intelligence. Government experts provided updates on trends and challenges, showcasing several successful seizures, including those involving fentanyl, precursors and other illicit substances.
Participants benefited from hands-on training and gained access to various INCB platforms. This enabled them to effectively access complex data, analyze patterns and identify potential threats. The training specifically addressed chemicals commonly used in illicit drug manufacture, as well as emerging threats generated by new psychoactive substances and the misuse of non-medical synthetic opioids.
Photo: INL Mexico presentation
The training included a module that emphasized the importance of traceability and safe handling measures for hazardous substances, given by experts from the Bureau of International Narcotics and Law Enforcement Affairs of the U.S. Department of State (INL) based in Mexico City.
This event was organized by the INCB in collaboration with SEMAR and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and was made possible thanks to the generous support of the Bureau of International Narcotics and Law Enforcement Affairs of the U.S. Department of State.
The Board's Global Rapid Interdiction of Dangerous Substances (GRIDS) Programme and Project ION and OPIOIDS Project support Governments' capacity to respond to changing trafficking, illicit manufacture, marketing and sales of NPS, non-medical synthetic opioids and fentanyl-related substances by providing real-time communication, facilitating information exchange and intelligence development that interdict distribution of dangerous substances.
This event was organized in collaboration with SEMAR and Ministry of Foreign Affairs and was made possible through generous support from the Bureau of International Narcotics and Law Enforcement, Department of State, U.S. Government.
Click here to learn more about the GRIDS Programme
Click here to learn more about the OPIOIDS Project
Click here to learn more about the Project ION