What is the purpose of an INTERPOL Blue Notice, and can it be challenged?

The INTERPOL Red Notice gets a lot of publicity in the news or in commentary, both good and bad. However, this is not the only notice that INTERPOL can issue.

Indeed, the INTERPOL Red Notice (whilst itself not an arrest warrant) is an invaluable tool in assisting jurisdictions across the world locate, detain and return individuals suspected to be involved in criminal activity.

However, it is not without criticism. As we discussed in a previous blog, the theme at INTERPOL’s General Assembly in Vienna last year, attended by more than a thousand police and law enforcement officers, was to ensure that the correct checks are in place to prevent the misuse of the INTERPOL Red Notice.

There is a multitude of other notices that Interpol can issue, including the Blue Notice, which was previously introduced in our blog ‘What is an INTERPOL Blue Notice?’ This blog provides further details on the nature and features of a Blue Notice along with options for challenging it.

What is the purpose of a Blue Notice?

The INTERPOL Blue Notice is used to locate, identify or obtain information about individuals of interest in criminal investigations, or to identify unidentified bodies.

Further, it is used to assist in ongoing investigations, in locating missing persons or identifying unknown individuals.

Who can issue a Blue Notice?

Blue Notices are issued by INTERPOL (International Criminal Police Organization).

What is the intended audience of a Blue Notice?

Law enforcement agencies, immigration and border control authorities, and other authorised organisations normally receive information pertaining to a Blue Notice.

Who is able to access a Blue Notice?

The access to a Blue Notice is restricted to authorised organisations and law enforcement agencies. Such information is not available to private individuals. However, if you believe you may be subject to an INTERPOL Blue Notice or want to check whether a Blue Notice has been issued, you can contact INTERPOL to inquire about any information they may have on file about you. It is recommended that legal expertise is sought before you engage in communication with INTERPOL.

Can Blue Notices be challenged?

Generally, challenges to a Blue Notice are not applicable because such a notice constitutes a request for information rather than accusations. However, it is advisable to seek expert legal advice to understand the nature of the Blue Notice in your specific circumstances. Legal experts can also advise if a challenge is appropriate and/or a response should be prepared to INTERPOL. This is particularly relevant if an individual who receives a Blue Notice believes that it has been issued unfairly or infringes on their rights. Legal expertise is required to understand INTERPOL’s Rules on the Processing of Data (“RPD”) and INTERPOL’s Constitution (the “Constitution”) that underpin such notices.

How Gherson can help

Those who fear that they may be subject to INTERPOL measures, including a Red (or Blue) Notice, should take heed.

Indeed, Gherson Solicitors continue to receive requests for expert advice and assistance from those who fear they may have outstanding financial issues arising. That advice tackles:   

1. How to best approach a possible INTERPOL notice;
2. Preparing for potential criminal proceedings / an extradition request;
3. Preparing for a situation where a civil matter or commercial dispute could be used to initiate bogus criminal proceedings; and
4. Even exploring the possibility of instigating civil litigation proceedings to recover any misappropriated assets.

Gherson have previously written a series of blogs designed to assist those who fear they might be subject to INTERPOL measures (including a Blue and a Red Notice):

What is an INTERPOL Blue Notice?          

INTERPOL and Red Notice Challenges

How to Remove an INTERPOL Red Notice

INTERPOL Red Notices and Extradition

How do I know if I am subject to an INTERPOL Red Notice.

Gherson has over 30 years of experience in assisting with all aspects of INTERPOL, Red Notice challenges and extradition. If you would like to speak to us in respect of any of the issues raised in this blog or about your specific circumstances,  do not hesitate to contact us for advice, send us an e-mail, or alternatively, follow us on X, Facebook, or LinkedIn to stay-up-to-date.

The information in this blog is for general information purposes only and does not purport to be comprehensive or to provide legal advice. Whilst every effort is made to ensure the information and law is current as of the date of publication it should be stressed that, due to the passage of time, this does not necessarily reflect the present legal position. Gherson accepts no responsibility for loss which may arise from accessing or reliance on information contained in this blog. For formal advice on the current law please do not hesitate to contact Gherson. Legal advice is only provided pursuant to a written agreement, identified as such, and signed by the client and by or on behalf of Gherson.

©Gherson 2024

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