Criminologist appointed to international taskforce for organised crime

A criminologist from Birmingham City University has been appointed to an expert network aimed at cutting organised crime across the globe.

Dr Mohammed Rahman (pictured), senior lecturer in Criminology at Birmingham City University, has been named as a member of The Global Initiative against Transnational Organized Crime, which aims to help tackle groups and networks of criminal activity.

The Initiative is an independent non-governmental organisation, based in Geneva, Switzerland, and brings together an array of experts from around the world to draw up plans, advice and ideas to help tackle illicit activity and crime.

Dr Rahman will use the position to advocate for global collaboration and share his expertise in the actions, motivations and tactics of organised criminal groups.

Speaking about the appointment Dr Rahman said: “Nearly all of my academic work on serious and organised crime has been carried out at Birmingham City University. “It's humbling to know that my work is now being recognised by peers, as well as the biggest international non-governmental organisation for curbing serious and organised crime.

“I am looking forward to working with other expert members as well as bringing some aspects of the Global Initiative to the University and its students. ”

Dr Rahman 's research has included a PhD examining organised crime and murder in the West Midlands, and he has published work exploring the roles of contract killers, and the motivations of violent offenders.

He has also carried out studies into 'enforcers ' in criminal gangs, who are tasked with settling disputes through violent or nefarious means. His latest work has explored the vulnerabilities and criminal exploitation that homeless people endure when sleeping rough.

The Global Initiative against Transnational Organized Crime was developed following a series of high-level, off the record discussions between mainly law-enforcement officials from both developed and developing countries.

It was formally launched at the United Nations headquarters in New York in 2013.

The Initiative aims to grow its reach and be a key contributor to tackling the globalised challenges of organised crime.