Kenya’s Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) has been ranked the best in Africa. According to the National Police Service (NPS), the DCI received this recognition following a survey conducted by Kenya Trak, a research and survey firm.

“The DCI has been consistent in its pursuit of excellence in investigations through partnerships with other agencies, including INTERPOL, the FBI, the German Agency for International Cooperation, and the National Crime Agency, among others. These collaborations facilitate the sharing of expertise, training for investigators, and the adoption of technology to enhance their investigative capacity in areas such as cybercrime, forensic investigations, anti-terrorism, and anti-narcotics,” stated the National Police Service.

Over the past few years, the DCI has invested heavily in advanced forensic labs, digital crime-fighting tools, and intelligence systems, enabling them to tackle transnational crimes like cybercrime, terrorism, and human trafficking with greater precision.

This ranking reflects the DCI’s significant improvements in various areas, including the use of advanced forensic techniques and digital tools that enhance their ability to solve complex cases. Their strong collaborations with international law enforcement agencies enable effective intelligence sharing and joint operations against transnational crime.

Additionally, Kenya’s geographical position, being a hub in East Africa, has put extra pressure on the DCI to handle not only local crime but also broader threats affecting the region. Their ability to manage this efficiently earned them recognition as the best in Africa.

While each agency possesses its own unique strengths and focuses, they all share a fundamental mission which is to protect their countries and ensure that justice is served. This unified approach underscores the importance of collaboration and innovation in addressing the complex challenges of crime in today’s world, reinforcing the vital role these agencies play in maintaining security and public safety across the continent.

Kenya was followed closely by Ghana’s Criminal Investigation Department in second place and Uganda’s Criminal Investigation Department in third. The rankings highlight the growing effectiveness of law enforcement agencies across the continent in combating crime.

Ethiopia’s National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) secured fourth place, while Morocco’s General Directorate for Territorial Surveillance (DGST) came in fifth. Egypt’s Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) followed in sixth place, showcasing the strength of North African countries in investigative capabilities.

Sudan’s National Intelligence and Security Services ranked seventh, with Zimbabwe’s Criminal Investigation Department (CID) in eighth. Botswana’s Directorate of Intelligence and Security (DIS) took the ninth position, and South Africa’s Directorate for Priority Crime Investigation, known as the Hawks, rounded out the top ten.

The report emphasizes the growing sophistication of African law enforcement agencies, highlighting their capabilities in tackling issues ranging from cybercrime to neutralizing terrorist threats. It notes that these agencies have increasingly embraced technology and formed global partnerships to stay ahead of emerging threats.

This survey reflects a collective effort among these agencies to enhance their investigative techniques, foster collaboration, and adapt to the evolving landscape of crime across Africa.

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