Investigation methods to combat smuggling and suspicious trade through transport routes: The Ukrainian case

Abstract

Smuggling needs to be considered a threat both to individuals and to national security. The problem of smuggling is complicated by the constant transformation of criminal strategies and networks, thereby urging the search for appropriate investigation methods of this offense. The aim of the research is to improve the methods of investigation of smuggling through the integration of legislative, human, and technical resources at the international level. The research employed a doctrinal approach, a statistical method, and a descriptive method. As a result of the research, the Ukrainian legislation on combating smuggling was analysed in the context of European accession. It is noted that the criminalization of the smuggling of goods is a commendable initiative, but the legislative framework needs further improvement. The legal basis of Ukraine's international cooperation in the investigation and countering of smuggling has been disclosed. The priority forms of cooperation were determined, and directions for further improvement were revealed using the experience of several international initiatives. The value of human capital in combination with the latest technologies in the process of investigating crimes related to smuggling is noted. The obtained conclusions can be useful for regulatory bodies in the context of developing anti-smuggling policies based on identified priority areas.