Issue Date: 07/09/2026
An Garda Síochána and the Colombian National Police signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) in May 2026, marking a significant milestone in the development of cooperation between the two police services in the fight against organised crime and international drug trafficking.
The agreement reflects the strong and growing relationship that has been carefully developed between both organisations over recent years. The signing formalises existing cooperation and provides a framework for enhanced information sharing, operational collaboration, training opportunities and the exchange of best practice in tackling serious and organised crime.
The MoU follows a series of engagements and reciprocal visits between senior members of An Garda Síochána and the Colombian National Police. These visits have played a crucial role in fostering mutual trust, strengthening professional relationships and developing a shared understanding of the challenges posed by transnational organised crime groups operating across jurisdictions.
Garda Commissioner Justin Kelly said: "An Garda Síochána is determined to play our part internationally in combatting the deadly and harmful impacts that transnational organised crime groups inflict on communities. An Garda Síochána has developed an extensive network of international Garda Liaison Officers strengthening our ties with international and local law enforcement agencies. As Garda Commissioner I am delighted to have signed this MoU with the Colombian National Police which is another step in demonstrating and strengthening that close international cooperation, disrupting degrading and dismantling transnational Organised Crime Groups.”
Supported by the Minister for Justice, Home Affairs & Migration, the Memorandum of Understanding fulfils the Government’s commitment to increase cooperation between An Garda Síochána and our international colleagues.
The cooperation comes at a time when organised crime groups continue to exploit international supply chains and transportation networks to facilitate the movement of illicit drugs. Both police services recognise the importance of international partnerships in identifying, disrupting and dismantling criminal networks operating across borders.
The agreement will support ongoing investigations into organised criminal activity, including drug trafficking networks with international links. By strengthening operational cooperation and facilitating the exchange of intelligence, both organisations aim to enhance their effectiveness in targeting those responsible for the importation and distribution of illicit drugs and other forms of serious organised crime.
Director General of the National Police of Colombia, General William Oswaldo Rincón, said: "An Garda Síochána of Ireland and the Colombian National Police have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to jointly combat organised crime and terrorism. The agreement officially establishes the framework for cooperation between both institutions, enabling them to join forces in the investigation and exchange of criminal intelligence regarding transnational crime and serious offences affecting both nations.
"This historic agreement entails the activation of direct police communication channels that will allow for the real-time sharing of strategic, technical and scientific data, excluding matters of national security. In practice, the agreement will lead to a profound operational modernisation through joint training programs, the development of citizen security projects assisted by digital technology and the implementation of global best practices in the fight against corruption.”
The signing of this MoU further demonstrates An Garda Síochána’s commitment to building strong international partnerships and working collaboratively with law enforcement agencies worldwide to protect communities, disrupt criminal organisations and bring offenders to justice.
