Counterfeiters operate as businesses, and Operation Archer has demonstrated that following the money can be just as powerful as seizing the goods. By targeting criminal profits and removing the financial incentive to offend, we can deliver lasting disruption while protecting consumers and legitimate businesses. The IP Crime Conference provides a unique opportunity to share innovative approaches, learn from international partners and build the relationships needed to tackle this global threat. Together, we are stronger than any individual agency working alone.
Receiving the IIPCIC Commendation of Merit was a tremendous honour, but the greatest impact has been the visibility it brought to Operation Archer and the innovative use of civil Proceeds of Crime Act powers to tackle intellectual property crime. The recognition has given us a platform to demonstrate that IP crime investigations can go beyond seizures and prosecutions. By targeting criminal finances and disrupting offenders' ability to trade online, we have shown that enforcement agencies can achieve meaningful and lasting disruption. The award has increased interest from enforcement partners across the UK and internationally, creating opportunities to share good practice and encourage others to consider alternative approaches to tackling organised counterfeit networks.
One of the most rewarding outcomes has been the strengthening of relationships across law enforcement, government agencies, rights holders, and online platforms. The recognition generated conversations with partners who were interested in understanding how Operation Archer works and how civil asset recovery powers could complement traditional enforcement methods. Those discussions have led to greater information sharing, stronger intelligence development, and more coordinated approaches to tackling online IP offending. Counterfeiting is a global problem that no single organisation can solve alone. The award has helped open doors, built trust, and created opportunities for collaboration with professionals facing similar challenges around the world.
One standout moment was getting to present the Operation Archer approach on the international stage at the IP Crime Conference and seeing the level of interest from investigators, prosecutors and rights holders from around the world. What began as an innovative approach has developed and shown law enforcement colleagues the potential of using financial disruption against IP criminals. It has also been a reminder that even relatively small teams can drive significant change when they are willing to challenge traditional thinking and work collaboratively with partners.
The IP Crime Conference is one of the most valuable events in the IP enforcement calendar because it brings together investigators, law enforcement agencies, customs officers, prosecutors, rights holders and policymakers from around the world who are all facing similar challenges. My advice to anyone considering attending is simple: go, engage and make connections. The knowledge you gain is invaluable, but the relationships you build may have an even greater impact on your work. Attend with an open mind and be prepared to share as much as you learn.