On behalf of the Police Directorate, Oslo Economics and KPMG conducted an evaluation of the Norwegian police’s use of financial intelligence. The focus of the evaluation was on the financial intelligence produced by the Financial Intelligence Unit (EFE) within Økokrim, as well as its application in cases related to money laundering and in cases with a potential for the confiscation of funds.
Using a dataset that links intelligence products from the money laundering register (ASK) to the police’s criminal case register (STRASAK), we document that the number of cases explicitly involving money laundering is low. Additionally, the majority of cases opened are eventually suspended or discontinued. The same holds for other cases related to financial crime where financial intelligence from EFE may be relevant. Commonly reported reasons for discontinuation include insufficient evidence and limited case processing capacity.
To enhance the police’s utilization of financial intelligence, several measures may be needed. Increased capacity is likely necessary. Furthermore, there is a clear need for better incentives to systematically follow up intelligence related to money laundering and financial crimes within the police districts. Lastly, we argue that harmonizing police priorities and implementing legal changes similar to those in Sweden and Denmark could lead to better resource utilization in this area.
The full report is written in Norwegian and can be accessed here or on the Norwegian government’s website.
