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Switzerland links up to European police files

Police is set to link up to the Europe-wide database system this week as part of Switzerland's membership in the Schengen security cooperation agreement.

The agreement will allow security forces to step up the fight against cross-border crime, according to a statement by the Federal Police Office.

Police and border guards will have access to files on wanted or missing people as well as on stolen goods in 25 Schengen states. In turn, Switzerland will provide information to the member states.

A unit made up of 25 specialists within the Police Office was set up over the past few months.

Officials added that there were safeguards to prevent data abuse.

Switzerland seeks to become a full member of the Schengen Area in December, pending a technical check by international experts.

Swiss voters approved police and asylum cooperation, known as Schengen/Dublin accords, in a nationwide ballot in 2005.

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