French woman elected Interpol's first female chief

Source: France 24

A top French police officer has been elected the first woman to lead the world’s largest international police organisation Interpol at its general assembly in Rome on Thursday.
Mireille Ballestrazzi, 58, well-known for her work combating organised crime in Bordeaux and Corsica, is currently second in command of France’s police force.

Interpol, based in the French city of Lyon, announced the historic appointment on Twitter.

Speaking about her appointment to French media Ballestrazzi said it was a significant moment for France and particularly for women.

“Of course I am happy they have put their trust in me,” Ballestrazzi told French radio RTL after her appointment was made public. “I am proud for women because this can have an impact and I am proud for France,” she added.

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