Sometimes, INTERPOL temporarily blocks a Red Notice while reviewing a case. This is called a provisional measure. It stops the notice from being used, meaning a person cannot be arrested or detained because of it. The data stays blocked until a final decision is made. This can help people who face serious risks, like extradition, detention based on INTERPOL’s data, or those with protective status.
When Does INTERPOL Block a Red Notice?
INTERPOL’s rules about blocking are not very clear. However, under Article 37 of the CCF Statute, blocking is possible when the situation is urgent. For example:
- The person is about to be extradited.
- Their detention depends only on INTERPOL’s data.
- They have been given refugee or protective status.
While INTERPOL can block notices quickly, it does not explain why it does so. People affected are often left guessing. Decisions follow internal rules about how cases are handled, but urgency and fairness guide these actions.
Example: Stopping Extradition
Imagine someone is detained and facing extradition. They might be sent to a country where they could face torture or even death. In one case, the person was tried in their absence, violating their right to a fair trial. The CCF blocked INTERPOL’s data immediately, stopping the extradition process. This pause allowed time to review the case properly and ensure the rules were followed.
Temporary Blocking Is Not Permanent Deletion
When a person requests to delete a Red Notice, INTERPOL often blocks the data first. But this does not mean the data will be deleted. Blocking is temporary and only buys time to review the case. Sometimes the data is removed, but the final decision can also keep the notice in place.
In 2021, INTERPOL blocked data in 311 out of 478 deletion requests (about 65%). This shows that many cases have serious concerns about compliance with INTERPOL’s rules. Still, blocking is just a temporary solution, not a guarantee of deletion.
What You Should Know
- Blocking helps stop arrests or extradition while a case is reviewed.
- It does not promise that the Red Notice will be deleted.
- The final decision could either delete or keep the notice.
- Blocking gives time to fight legal battles without immediate threats.
If you are facing a Red Notice issue, act quickly. Expert advice can make it easier to handle this complex process and protect your rights.
