A new European network of specialised prosecutors, called the European Judicial Organised Crime Network (EJOCN), has been established to combat cross-border organised crime more effectively.
Made up of prosecutors from the 27 EU Member States, the network's initial focus will be on drug trafficking through European ports, according to Eurojust, the EU’s judicial cooperation agency, which supports the new initiative.
Eurojust notes that three-quarters of active criminal organisations in the EU operate in multiple countries. Dismantling such structures requires a cross-border approach that is rapid, flexible, and able to adapt to the constantly evolving criminal landscape.
The EJOCN, with the support of Eurojust, will strengthen coordination between the specialised prosecutors and judges of the EU, Ladislav Hamran, President of Eurojust, said at the network’s presentation.
Evi Franco, a magistrate from the Belgian Federal Prosecutor’s Office, agrees that current cooperation is effective, but highlights that “time often works against justice.” She emphasises that criminal networks are well-organised and easily collaborate across borders, making it necessary for prosecutors to be able to do the same. “This network will enable us to establish direct contact with one another,” Franco said
She cited the example of needing to quickly alert the relevant authorities in other countries when the prosecutor’s office receives information about a significant drug shipment destined for the Port of Antwerp.
In addition to tackling drug trafficking at European ports and logistics hubs, the EJOCN will facilitate the rapid exchange of information, potential evidence, and details regarding applicable legal frameworks.
