The role of customs in combating environmental crime

Abstract

Environmental crime poses a serious threat to security in general, and to the protection of the environment and nature in particular.There are a number of illegal activities that greatly pollute all ecosystems, water, soil and air, and thus can directly cause serious and severe consequences for the health of the entire living world. As a result of pollution and other harmful effects, human life is endangered, but also the flora and fauna.Numerous bodies and institutions within their competencies and authorities undertake measures and activities for prevention and repression of environmental crimes. These include the criminal police, uniformed police, inspectorates, judicial bodies, but customs also play an important role in combating environmental crime, both nationally and internationally. Namely, most often this type of crime is cross-border, with international characteristics and that is why the Customs Administration of the Republic of North Macedonia has an important role in finding out, proving and clarifying these crimes.Internationally, a number of special operations to combat environmental crimes are being undertaken by Interpol, Europol, and the World Customs Organization.