Sustainable Development Goals and Mitigation of Financial Crimes in Mauritius: The Role, Responsibilities, and Challenges of the Newly Established Financial Crime Commission

Objective: This study explores the current anti-financial crime regime, the performance of existing institutions, and the challenges of the newly established Financial Crime Commission in Martutiuts. Theoretical Framework: The study adopted the control balance theory. It evaluates the possibilities for individuals to commit organised crimes. Control balance surplus instead of deficit, leads to organised crimes. Method: The study adopted a qualitative technique and conducted semi-structured interviews to gain insight into the financial crime landscape. Results and Discussion: Mauritius Financial Crime Commission was established with a clear motive to dent the economy of criminals. However, it faces several potential constitutional, administrative, financial, coordination, and investigative challenges. The mechanism for appointing the Director-General of the Financial Crime Commission is a grave concern. The method has been seen as politically motivated and could be used for political victimisation. Further, the merger of several other institutes in FCC could result in a lack of coordination among officials from different backgrounds. Additionally, a considerable cost is required to set up new offices and purchase contemporary information technologies/solutions for monitoring, analysing, and investigating financial crimes. Research Implications: Therefore, crystal clear legislation, highly committed officials, cost-effective solutions, and trained staff are pivotal for the success of the Financial Crime Commission. Originality/Value: This research is the first to empirically investigate the challaenegs of Financial Crime Commission in Martitutes.