Maldives have concluded a training programme conducted for specialists on victim identification. The programme was conducted to train Maldivian police officers on Interpol victim identification and International Child Sexual Exploitation Database.
Interpol victim identification involves detailed analysis of images and videos to locate and rescue child sexual abuse victims. Victim identification combines detailed image analysis and traditional investigative methods. By examining the digital, visual and audio content of photographs and films, officers can find clues identifying the location or victim. Clues can come from many places and in many forms, it is up to the victim identification specialists to piece them together using a range of specialised tools.
A key tool in victim identification is the International Child Sexual Exploitation Database, which includes image comparison software that helps victim identification specialists compare and exchange information on material and active investigations. The database, which includes images and videos, is an intelligence and investigative tool, which allows specialized investigators to share data on cases of child sexual abuse.
Using image and video comparison software, investigators are instantly able to make connections between victims, abusers and places. The database avoids duplication of effort and saves precious time by letting investigators know whether a series of images has already been discovered or identified in another country, or whether it has similar features to other images.
It also allows specialised investigators from more than 50 countries to exchange information and share data with their colleagues across the world.
The UNICEF Representative to Maldives Mohamed El Munir A. Safieldin, Programme Specialist at UNDP Maldives Mohamed Naeem and trainers from Interpol took part in the closing ceremony.