The
United States Embassy, through the
Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) office of the
U.S. Department of Homeland Security, organized the specialized workshop "Investigation Techniques in Money Laundering and Illegal Mining" in Lima from June 3 to 5.
During the inauguration, HSI Attaché at the U.S. Embassy in Lima, Paul Salamon, highlighted the importance of confronting two complex threats: trade-based money laundering (TBML) and illegal mining, which undermine economic stability, environmental sustainability, and national security.
"Trade-based money laundering is one of the least understood and most difficult types of money laundering to detect. It does not involve suitcases of cash or cryptocurrency wallets; it hides behind shipping containers, invoices, and customs forms. Criminals manipulate legitimate commercial transactions to move illicit funds while appearing legal and avoiding scrutiny," Salamon emphasized.
He explained that these tactics have made TBML a formidable challenge, deeply linked to other crimes such as illegal mining, which fuels environmental destruction and strengthens organized crime networks.
This crucial course equipped participants with cutting-edge investigative techniques, promoted the exchange of best practices, and encouraged inter-institutional collaboration to detect and dismantle these sophisticated schemes.
HSI reaffirmed its commitment to working alongside Peruvian agencies to confront these transnational threats.
The United States Embassy will continue working with SUNAT; the Superintendence of Banking, Insurance, and Private Pension Fund Administrators (AFP); the Public Ministry; and the Peruvian National Police to more effectively confront this transnational crime and other illicit operations in our region.
(END) NDP/JMP/MVB
Published: 6/9/2025