Sierra Leone’s newly promoted Assistant Commissioner of Police, ACP Joan Moyatu Sandeke Bull, Esq., has once again demonstrated her exceptional leadership and expertise at the GIABA 42nd Technical Commission/Plenary. Held from November 17–23, 2024, the forum brought together experts, technical partners, and member states to assess regional challenges and strategies in combating money laundering, terrorist financing, and the financing of proliferation (AML/CFT/PF).
ACP Bull played a crucial role in Sierra Leone’s Success, by supporting the Head of the Financial Intelligence Agency (FIA) and other delegates in presenting the country’s significant strides in aligning with international AML/CFT standards. Her contributions highlighted the critical role of law enforcement in strengthening investigative, prosecutorial, and compliance mechanisms, which were pivotal in Sierra Leone’s successful bid for reclassification under FATF Recommendation 15 on Virtual Asset Service Providers (VASPs).
Through her leadership, ACP Bull highlighted key achievements, including:
• Conducting a comprehensive risk assessment of the VASP sector to identify vulnerabilities.
• Supporting the creation of legislation and regulatory frameworks through the Bank of Sierra Leone to oversee and monitor VASPs.
• Leading covert operations to address unregulated VASP activities, reinforcing the country’s proactive enforcement stance.
These measures, presented at the forum, showcased Sierra Leone’s commitment to combating financial crimes and earned widespread support from member states for the nation’s reclassification from “High Risk” to “Largely Compliant.”
ACP Bull’s participation at the GIABA forum comes as no surprise to those who have followed her remarkable career. With an academic background that includes an LLM (USA), MSc (UK), BL, LLB Hons, and BA (USL), she embodies the blend of knowledge and leadership required to tackle complex global challenges. Her promotion as Assistant Commissioner of Police underscores her dedication to justice and the advancement of Sierra Leone’s legal and security frameworks.
As one of the few women leading in a traditionally male-dominated field, ACP Bull’s achievements are a beacon of inspiration for young women across Sierra Leone and beyond. Her success at the GIABA forum reflects not only her professional expertise but also her ability to collaborate effectively with national and international partners.
ACP Bull’s commitment to safeguarding Sierra Leone’s financial systems and ensuring regional security is a testament to her visionary leadership. Sierra Leone celebrates her contributions to this historic achievement, which marks a significant step forward in the nation’s fight against financial crimes.
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