(Commonwealth)_ Over 70 judges, prosecutors, and investigators in Seychelles recently participated in two advanced workshops aimed at enhancing their skills in handling complex cybercrime cases. Organized by the Commonwealth Secretariat with support from the UK’s Foreign, Commonwealth, and Development Office, these workshops took place in Mahe from March 10 to 14, 2025. The training focused on addressing the expertise gap faced by small island developing states like Seychelles in investigating and prosecuting digital crimes, such as online scams, identity theft, and hacking.
The workshops were designed to provide critical skills for tracking and prosecuting cybercriminals who pose significant threats both locally and internationally. The first workshop specifically targeted 20 judges, who engaged in case studies and simulations to deepen their understanding of the national cybercrime act. They also explored the legal admissibility of electronic evidence and the crucial aspect of international cooperation, as cybercrimes often cross borders. This session aimed to ensure that judges could effectively interpret and apply the law in the digital age.
The second workshop trained more than 50 prosecutors and investigators, equipping them with the latest tools and techniques for gathering, authenticating, and presenting electronic evidence. This training was vital for improving their ability to prosecute cybercriminals effectively. The goal was to increase the capacity of Seychelles’ judicial system to tackle digital crimes, which are becoming increasingly sophisticated and prevalent.
Seychelles’ leadership recognizes the growing threat of cybercrime, considering it a national security issue. The workshops were an essential part of the country’s ongoing efforts to combat cybercrime by strengthening its legal and investigative capabilities. They provided a platform for participants to exchange best practices, learn from global experiences, and enhance their collective response to digital threats.
Cybercrime is a persistent and evolving threat, and small island states like Seychelles often find themselves particularly vulnerable. These countries are targets for cybercriminals and face significant challenges in their ability to respond effectively. The workshops were aimed at helping Seychelles build a robust system to protect its citizens and institutions from the increasingly sophisticated tactics used by cybercriminals.
One of the significant challenges noted by local experts was the gap in specialized personnel capable of maximizing the potential of Seychelles’ world-class digital forensics lab. Despite having advanced forensics equipment, the lack of skilled personnel limited its ability to handle complex cybercrime cases. The workshops aimed to address this gap by training participants in how to make full use of forensics tools, establish standard operating procedures, and improve the presentation of digital evidence in court.
The training also highlighted the importance of building the capacity of law enforcement and judicial officers to handle cybercrime cases effectively. By equipping participants with the knowledge of how cybercriminals operate and the best practices for prosecuting them, the workshops aimed to increase the overall effectiveness of Seychelles’ response to cybercrime. The workshops were designed to be practical, with a strong focus on real-world applications that could immediately improve the country’s ability to handle digital crimes.
The UK’s partnership with Seychelles, which spans three years, is focused on strengthening the country’s police capabilities, including enhancing its cyber resilience. This partnership reflects a broader commitment to supporting small island states in tackling emerging threats, such as cybercrime, which can have far-reaching consequences for their economies, security, and public safety.
The workshops were part of a wider initiative by the Commonwealth Secretariat, which has already upskilled over 1,400 law enforcement officers, prosecutors, and judicial officials from 55 Commonwealth countries since 2018. The Commonwealth has been at the forefront of supporting member states in their efforts to tackle cybercrime, recognizing that the digital age presents new and complex challenges for law enforcement globally. The success of these workshops could have broader implications for the region, as other small island nations may look to Seychelles as a model for enhancing their cybercrime capabilities. As cyber threats continue to evolve, it is crucial for nations to adapt by strengthening their legal, investigative, and technological frameworks to stay ahead of cybercriminals.
