02-05-2004, 08:30 AM
Guys, it is important to keep in mind that there is basically no such thing as Interpol!
Interpol is an information exchange body only. It posts notices like this because it is asked to by a member police force, in this case obviously Ukraine. In fact, looking at the web site again, it is not Interpol HQ, but Interpol Ukraine that has posted the notice. Interpol Ukraine is actually part of the Ukrainian police. It is simply the section of the Ukrainian police designaed to deal with Interpol HQ.
Interpol never arrests anyone. It has no powers anywhere. The Ukrainian police could officially ask, via Interpol liaison officers, the police of USA or Sweden or wherever to do something for them. However, they have to act under the laws of the country the action is to be carried out in - i.e. USA or Sweden.
If you have wanted award X the Ukrainian police would still have to present legal evidence, in effect begin a legal case, in your jurisdiction.
Therefore, my conclusion is, if you have a really famous, big ticket item that the Russian or Ukrainina state wishes to begin a legal case over you could be in trouble. Although, even in this case the most you would likely face is confiscation unless you were somehow party to the theft.
Shawn
PS Let me say as a diplomat, that if a diplomat from any foreign country ever tries to confiscate something from you, tell them to %@$#* right off and call your local police right away. Diplomats have no such powers anywhere, ever!!
Interpol is an information exchange body only. It posts notices like this because it is asked to by a member police force, in this case obviously Ukraine. In fact, looking at the web site again, it is not Interpol HQ, but Interpol Ukraine that has posted the notice. Interpol Ukraine is actually part of the Ukrainian police. It is simply the section of the Ukrainian police designaed to deal with Interpol HQ.
Interpol never arrests anyone. It has no powers anywhere. The Ukrainian police could officially ask, via Interpol liaison officers, the police of USA or Sweden or wherever to do something for them. However, they have to act under the laws of the country the action is to be carried out in - i.e. USA or Sweden.
If you have wanted award X the Ukrainian police would still have to present legal evidence, in effect begin a legal case, in your jurisdiction.
Therefore, my conclusion is, if you have a really famous, big ticket item that the Russian or Ukrainina state wishes to begin a legal case over you could be in trouble. Although, even in this case the most you would likely face is confiscation unless you were somehow party to the theft.
Shawn
PS Let me say as a diplomat, that if a diplomat from any foreign country ever tries to confiscate something from you, tell them to %@$#* right off and call your local police right away. Diplomats have no such powers anywhere, ever!!
