Multiplex key roles to disrupt criminal networks

Abstract

Identify and characterize criminal organizations as a network of collaborative individuals, exposing their underlying structure as a multiplex network. Study different mechanisms to disrupt criminal networks and propose an effective protocol to assist the criminal investigation. Methods: From data collected by security intelligence from the State of Minas Gerais, Brazil, we build crime networks using Graph Theory. Different strategies to break the network are tested based on key agents identified by the node properties, organized by different crimes in a multilayer structure. Results: The performance of nine different interruption strategies is quantified and analyzed, and a new protocol is proposed considering the greater efficiency compared to standard techniques. Conclusion: A protocol to disrupt crime networks is proposed which can effectively assist police operations to be targeted to remove key criminals. The proposed method of disruption based on key Criminal network disruption agents allows police to identify, visualize and qualify criminal activity, increasing the chances of a successful criminal network disruption.