Approved by Government. Moldova to step up exchange of police data with European states

The Republic of Moldova will step up the exchange of police data with European states to more quickly identify persons and property involved in cross‑border crimes. The Government today approved the draft law on international police cooperation, developed in accordance with the European Prüm II mechanism.

Minister of Internal Affairs Daniella Misail-Nichitin emphasized that a faster and more efficient exchange of information with authorities in European states will allow law enforcement structures to more quickly identify persons involved in cross‑border crimes.

“The draft law on international police cooperation was developed in accordance with the requirements of the European Prüm II mechanism. It allows the authorities of participating states to check and automatically exchange certain data relevant to the prevention and combating of crime. Thus, the draft establishes a unified legal framework for the exchange of information on DNA profiles, fingerprints, vehicles and their components, facial images, certain police records, as well as travel documents declared stolen or lost,” noted Daniella Misail-Nichitin.

The draft also regulates the exchange of information necessary for preventing terrorism, identifying missing persons and unidentified bodies.

“The document establishes the single point of contact for international police cooperation within the General Police Inspectorate and clearly delineates the competences of the authorities involved. I would like to mention that we are not creating a new entity, but rather clarifying more precisely the competences that already exist within the International Police Cooperation Directorate. For citizens, the draft means more safety and the possibility for the authorities to react more quickly in cases of serious crimes, missing persons, or stolen property and vehicles,” remarked Daniella Misail-Nichitin.

The exchange of information will be carried out with full respect for citizens’ rights and with clear safeguards for the protection of personal data.