Following the networks: CEPOL strengthens responses to the organised crime–terrorism nexus

Organised crime groups and terrorist actors increasingly exploit shared networks, routes, financial channels and criminal services. Understanding these connections is essential for law enforcement and judicial authorities seeking to disrupt criminal activity, prevent terrorism and bring perpetrators to justice. To strengthen practitioners' understanding of this evolving nexus, CEPOL organised a training activity under the CT INFLOW project from 6 to 10 July 2026 at its headquarters in Budapest, Hungary.

Through practical sessions, expert-led discussions and the exchange of operational experience, law enforcement and judicial practitioners from CT INFLOW partner countries examined how organised crime and terrorism can intersect in areas such as illicit financing, trafficking, document fraud, logistics and access to criminal networks. The programme combined investigative, analytical and judicial perspectives, helping participants explore how stronger cooperation can support more effective criminal justice responses.

The activity benefited from contributions by experts from Europol, CEPOL, the EU-funded Identity Attributes Matrix Initiative (IAMI) project and the United Nations Office of Counter-Terrorism (UNOCT). Their complementary operational and strategic perspectives provided participants with a broader understanding of the evolving crime–terrorism nexus and the importance of coordinated action at both national and international levels.

By strengthening practical capacities and promoting the exchange of good practices, the activity contributed to developing a shared operational understanding of the organised crime–terrorism nexus among partner countries. It also reinforced cooperation between law enforcement and judicial authorities, supporting more coordinated responses to emerging security threats.