Interrogating the Role of Interpol in Combating Terrorism and Other Transnational Organized Crimes in the West African Sub-Region

Purpose: The purpose of this study was to interrogate the role of INTERPOL in combating terrorism and other transnational organized crimes in the West African sub-region. Methodology: The researchers adopted Woodrow Wilson’s Collective security theory and exploratory design for the study. Primary and secondary data were obtained by using a purposive sampling technique. Respondents with relevant experience and knowledge of the subject matter were engaged. Primary data were obtained using 14 key informant interviews, 4 focus group discussions, and 25 in-depth interviews held with selected stakeholders, INTERPOL officials and personnel, investigators, analysts, and administrators working within Interpol's Regional Bureau for West Africa, based in Abuja, Nigeria. Secondary data were obtained from published works, including books, journals, and online articles, analyzed using thematic analysis. Findings: Factors hindering INTERPOL's effectiveness include political interference, inadequate training, language barriers, insufficient technology, and corruption. Transnational crimes in West Africa involve suicide bombings, kidnappings, human/drug/arms trafficking, cyber fraud, and banditry. INTERPOL's roles include intelligence sharing via WAPIS, suspect prosecution, training, global initiatives, and crime pattern analysis. Major challenges: language barriers, political meddling, funding shortages, limited tech, poor intelligence sharing, and corruption Unique Contribution to Theory, Practice and Policy: The study clearly identifies the gap that lies between policy implementation, and influence of INTERPOL in combating terrorism and other transnational organized crimes in the West African sub-region. The study underscored the urgent need for reform, highlighting the importance of enhancing institutional integrity, improving training, and fostering inter-agency collaboration. The paper, therefore, concluded that investment in advanced technologies and information-sharing remained essential for bolstering Interpol's capacity and ensuring peace and stability in West Africa.