Can a “Lone wolf” quasi-investigative journalists substitute low functionality of the law enforcement system? Cover Image

Can a “Lone wolf” quasi-investigative journalists substitute low functionality of the law enforcement system?
Can a “Lone wolf” quasi-investigative journalists substitute low functionality of the law enforcement system?

Author(s): Andrej Školkay
Subject(s): Politics / Political Sciences, Social Sciences, Media studies, Communication studies
Published by: Wydawnictwo Uniwersytetu Wrocławskiego
Keywords: money laundering;undercover investigative journalism;anti-money laundering (AML);Slovakia;Czech Republic;Hong Kong

Summary/Abstract: The present article analyzes a relatively unusual case, in which a quasi-investigative journalist, working in an entirely independent capacity, succeeded in uncovering and foiling an international money laundering attempt. Th is extremely signifi cant story reveals the existence of a complex legal framework for tackling money laundering operations in the EU. In this particular instance, local police and prosecutors were unable to take action against the perpetrator of illegal activity, as the case did not fulfi ll conditions of local legislation. Th e present study thus draws attention to the weakness of anti-corruption and anti-money laundering legislation. It provides evidence that a non-affi liated journalist can also be a great asset to society, although the actual mostly low coverage of the case indicates a poor media understanding of the social implications of crime detection across both the Czech Republic and Slovakia.

  • Issue Year: 9/2016
  • Issue No: 17
  • Page Range: 197-212
  • Page Count: 16
  • Language: English