INDECOM and MOCA Sign Memorandum of Understanding to Strengthen Structured Collaboration and Investigative Capacity

L/R - Hugh Faulkner, Commissioner of INDECOM; Yanique Taylor Wellington, Deputy Commissioner INDECOM; Nigel Parke, Senior Director, Legal and Prosecutorial Services, MOCA; Col. Desmond Edwards, Director-General, MOCA

JOINT PRESS RELEASE — The Independent Commission of Investigations (INDECOM) and the Major Organised Crime and Anti-Corruption Agency (MOCA) today signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU), establishing a structured framework for cooperation aimed at strengthening investigative capacity, improving inter-agency coordination, and enhancing institutional effectiveness, while preserving the independence and distinct statutory mandates of both bodies.

The agreement sets out the basic principles of co-operation that INDECOM and MOCA seek to foster. It is intended to enhance the effective working relationship between the two entities and promote collaboration in areas of mutual professional interest. The MOU is not intended to modify or supersede any laws or regulatory requirements in force and is designed as a statement of intent that does not create any legally binding obligations for either party.

The MOU further establishes a common understanding of the roles and responsibilities of INDECOM and MOCA with regard to:

· Information sharing

· Casework assistance

· Referrals, including criminal referrals

· Joint operations and investigations, where appropriate

· Training and capacity building

Both agencies reaffirmed that the framework is designed to support structured engagement while maintaining clear institutional boundaries and operational independence.

Speaking at the signing ceremony, INDECOM Commissioner, Hugh Faulkner, emphasised the importance of structured collaboration in a modern investigative environment.

“INDECOM has, over time, strategically sought to advance certain aspects of its investigative work through carefully structured partnerships. This approach is grounded in a simple but critical reality: no single institution, regardless of its mandate or expertise, can be a complete repository of all the technical knowledge, specialised skills, and operational tools required to meet the growing complexity of modern investigations. Crime, misconduct, and corruption have evolved, often leveraging technology and sophisticated methods. Our response must therefore be equally adaptive, informed, and collaborative.”

The INDECOM Commissioner noted that evolving investigative demands require adaptive and structured cooperation between institutions and highlighted MOCA’s role as a key technical partner.

“It is within this context that INDECOM has found MOCA to be a valuable partner. MOCA’s depth of experience in financial investigations, cyber analysis, and intelligence-led operations complements INDECOM’s mandate to conduct independent, objective and impartial investigations into actions by members of the security forces. This partnership is not about overlapping functions; rather, it is about aligning strengths in a way that enhances the quality, efficiency, and integrity of our respective outputs.”

The Commissioner stressed that institutional independence remains fully intact.

“This Memorandum of Understanding will not dilute, compromise, or in any way encroach upon the independence of either institution. Independence remains the cornerstone of INDECOM’s work, just as it is fundamental to MOCA’s mandate.”

Director General of MOCA, Colonel Desmond Edwards, welcomed the signing of the agreement and underscored its importance in strengthening national investigative capacity.

“This Memorandum of Understanding marks an important step in strengthening Jamaica’s capacity to combat organised crime, corruption, and other complex offences. By combining expertise and fostering closer cooperation, MOCA and INDECOM are better positioned to serve the public interest and uphold the rule of law.”

Colonel Edwards highlighted that the MOU provides a disciplined framework for engagement.

“Effective partnerships require structure, clarity, and mutual respect. This agreement establishes a disciplined mechanism through which INDECOM and MOCA can engage where appropriate, share expertise, and coordinate support while maintaining accountability and operational focus.”

The Director General further emphasised the importance of maintaining institutional independence while enhancing coordination.

“This Memorandum of Understanding will not dilute, compromise, or in any way encroach upon the independence of either institution. Independence remains the cornerstone of INDECOM’s work, just as it is fundamental to MOCA’s mandate.”

He also pointed to the importance of capacity building under the agreement.

“An equally valuable aspect of this partnership is the opportunity for continued professional development. Through training initiatives, technical exchanges, and shared learning, both organisations can strengthen their capabilities to meet the increasingly sophisticated challenges facing modern investigators.”

The MOU is intended to support improved cooperation between INDECOM and MOCA in areas where their work may intersect operationally. It provides a framework for engagement that prioritises clarity, accountability, and respect for institutional independence.

The signing of this Memorandum of Understanding reflects a shared commitment by INDECOM and MOCA to strengthening Jamaica’s investigative and accountability architecture through structured cooperation, enhanced technical capacity, and continued professional development.

Both agencies reaffirmed their dedication to upholding the rule of law, maintaining institutional independence, and ensuring effective service to the Jamaican people.

About INDECOM

The Independent Commission of Investigations (INDECOM) is a civilian- staffed Commission of Parliament, mandated to conduct independent investigations into actions by members of the security forces and other agents of the State that result in death, injury, or abuse of rights.

About MOCA

The Major Organised Crime and Anti-Corruption Agency (MOCA) investigates serious organised crime, corruption, and financial offences using intelligence-led and technology-driven approaches.