## TECHNICAL ASSISTANCE REPORT — CAMBODIA: Training in Investigation Techniques (JUNE 2024)

## Source details

**Canonical URL:** [TECHNICAL ASSISTANCE REPORT — CAMBODIA: Training in Investigation Techniques (JUNE 2024)](https://www.imf.org/-/media/files/publications/tar/2024/english/tarea2024052-print-pdf.pdf)

## Other formats

- [Markdown version](/-/media/files/publications/tar/2024/english/tarea2024052-print-pdf.pdf.md)
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### I. Introduction
- The GDCE produced and validated its policy documents and a procedural framework for investigations program based on FAD inputs.
- GDCE requested FAD support to develop a training program and provide a train-the-trainer type training on implementation of the investigation program for GDCE staff at headquarters and major border posts.
- The training was provided by FAD expert, Peter Nash, at the Customs National School from April 8 to 11, 2024.

### II. Summary of Support and Findings

#### Training program and materials
- The training program and materials were discussed and validated by the GDCE prior to the STX’s visit.
- The training program covered all aspects of the investigation process, including:
  - the investigation mindset,
  - case management,
  - questioning techniques,
  - legislative knowledge,
  - elements of offence.
- The training emphasized:
  - disciplines of planning and structure required for successful investigatory activity,
  - requirement of maintaining documentary records of investigation activity,
  - security of evidence.
- Training materials development:
  - Based on GDCE’s policy documents on investigations and Standard Operating procedures (SOP) for investigations of other countries.
  - Reference includes The Australian Federal Police Investigation, Standards and Practices.
  - Supported by practical examples from trainer and trainees.
  - Intended delivery tool: power point presentation of summarized points (slides attached as Annex II).
- Limitations and focus:
  - Course design did not enable teaching the full range of investigation techniques, which are mostly learned through practical experience.
  - Emphasis was placed on the Investigative mindset to assist development of recruitment profiles for expanded investigation capability.
  - Knowledge of customs legislation pervaded training and was tested in hypothetical scenarios using real life examples.
- Materials are a living document:
  - Contain three scenarios: traveler’s baggage; post-clearance audit (PCA); and suspicion of smuggling.
  - Will be enhanced through practical experiences in Cambodia.
  - Some foreign lessons did not necessarily fit Cambodia’s context, but overriding principles remained consistent.
  - Presence of operational staff from various work areas assisted in transposing concepts to local procedures.

#### Train-the-trainer training
- Attendance and representation:
  - Twenty-two GDCE officers attended the training.
  - Trainees represented headquarters, the airport, and provincial posts.
  - Ranks ranged from Customs Officer to Deputy Director.
  - Presence of senior officers indicated strong support and contributed depth of knowledge and credibility.
- Group discussions and consensus:
  - Facilitated discussion on the FAD Technical Report “Development of Customs Investigations Program in Cambodia”.
  - Consensus on the need for enhanced investigation capacity.
  - Trainees felt they could not define how milestones (authorizing, commencing, conducting, finalizing investigations) in the report would be met—viewed as outside their sphere of influence.
  - Suggested Director, Prevention and suppression discuss the report with DDG Se Sokhorn to proceed with implementation.
- Mandate and legal context:
  - Discussions on altering the Investigation Mandate to cater for improved capacity.
  - Group noted Government Order 01 of 2023 required greater anti-smuggling efforts, with Customs to be the lead agency.
  - Considered inclusion in the Investigation Mandate a leverage point for agreement with other government and law enforcement agencies.
  - Agreed implementation would be a lengthy process.

### III. Next Steps (Recommendations / Implementation Actions)
- Conclude negotiation with other law enforcement agencies and agree a framework agreement for greater customs involvement in major cases.
- Review and revise Investigations Mandate (referring what function the GDCE allocates to its departments).
- Incorporate the proposal of enhancing investigation power in the current customs law revision, particularly Article 52 and 54 of Law on Customs.

### IV. Key Legal and Instructional References Cited in Training
- Chapter X Customs Law: Article 58 (Clarification of Sworn Officers/Judicial Police).
- Article 57 para (query: does this include financial institutions?).
- Article 8, Article 9; Chapter 11 Customs Law.
- Article 74 I, J (referenced in Elements of Offence training).
- Government Order 01 of 2023 (anti-smuggling requirement / Customs lead).

### V. Course Structure and Agenda (high-level)
- Trainer: Peter Nash
- Dates: 8th April to 11th April 2024
- Day 1 (8th April): Formal Opening; What is an Investigation; Essential Elements of an Investigation; Management of Investigation.
- Day 2: Elements of Offence; Interview Techniques.
- Day 3: Report Writing; Intelligence Support.
- Day 4: Scenario — application of theory (hypothetical fraud offence).
- Day 5 (12th April): Summary and Review; Course Closure.
- Instructional emphases included planning and organization of evidence, investigative mindset, team responsibilities (Team leadership; Case officer; Information and decision records; Evidence control; Case management), interviewing vs interrogation, recording methodology, and the role of tactical intelligence.

### VI. Annexes (as listed in the report)
- Annex I. Training Program on Investigations
- Annex II. Training Materials (Slides)

*Prepared by Peter Nash; Fiscal Affairs Department; JUNE 2024.*

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_Source: https://www.imf.org/-/media/files/publications/tar/2024/english/tarea2024052-print-pdf.pdf_