Whilst addressing senior managers on the scourge of commercial crime in the province, particularly in government, Dr Rachel Makhari said financial crime is crippling the economy. 

She said as a result of these acts of criminality, investment prospects within the province are sabotaged. Makhari further highlighted how these offenses are contributing to the overall downgrading of the country’s economic standing.

"The year 2023 will be a year of change. Corruption will be confronted head-on without fear, favour, or prejudice. The days of those stealing funds meant to improve the lives of citizens through service delivery are over. We are committed to this course and the wheels of justice will soon catch up with those who are lawbreakers,” she added.

The meeting between Makhari and senior managers in the province was to formulate an action plan that would fast-track the rate at which the division is prosecuting corruption in government and corporate entities, and where huge amounts are stolen by officials for self-enrichment.  

Following the deliberations, the head of the Specialised Commercial Crimes Unit in the province presented a bleak picture of how financial crime is crippling the economy.

Meanwhile, Makhari has expressed satisfaction with the conviction rate on other serious crimes that include GBV&F and other violent crimes. She called upon units to sustain this high level of convictions while also focusing on gearing up convictions in corruption cases in government and private entities. She was also pleased by the commitment made by the Asset Forfeiture Unit and the Tax Unit in the recovery of proceeds of crime through attaching the properties of those found to be active in criminality.

OFM News