Gabon emphatically reaffirmed its dedication to global security collaboration during the 5th United Nations Chiefs of Police Summit (UNCOPS), which convened in New York on July 8th and 9th. Representing the nation, Adrien Nguema Mba, the Minister of Interior, Security, and Decentralization, passionately advocated for the critical need of real-time intelligence exchange and collaborative data collection to effectively counter evolving transnational threats. Joined by General Serge Hervé Ngoma, Commander-in-Chief of the National Police Forces, Minister Nguema Mba underscored the imperative of unified action against organized crime, terrorism, and intricate criminal networks that increasingly operate without regard for national borders.

Addressing sessions focused on the intricate connections between conflict, insecurity, and transnational criminality, the Gabonese minister highlighted that contemporary security challenges necessitate closer alliances among police services worldwide. He emphasized that the swift sharing of information has become an indispensable tool for anticipating dangers, coordinating responses, and bolstering the efficacy of national security frameworks. Gabon is committed to integrating its efforts into a dynamic partnership with regional and international organizations actively engaged in the fight against crime.

Gabon champions cooperation-driven security 

In New York, Adrien Nguema Mba also showcased Gabon’s existing commitments to police cooperation. The country has been a member of the Committee of Central African Police Chiefs (CCPAC) since 1997 and actively participates in CEMAC police cooperation mechanisms, as well as Interpol’s secure I-24/7 communication system. More recently, Libreville has forged strategic agreements with the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC), the World Customs Organization, and Interpol, all aimed at intensifying efforts against illicit trafficking and organized criminal enterprises.

This significant summit provided a platform to envision the future trajectory of the United Nations Police (UNPOL). On this matter, Gabon put forward a proposition for a more adaptable, specialized, and nationally-owned model of police support. For Gabonese authorities, achieving global security in the 21st century hinges upon strengthened partnerships, improved intelligence circulation, and operational cooperation capable of robustly addressing contemporary security challenges.