LILONGWE-(MaraviPost)-The Anti-Corruption Bureau (ACB) has announced its intention to initiate civil asset forfeiture proceedings against properties suspected to be proceeds of crime linked to the K36.7 billion fraud at Greenbelt Authority (GBA).
This move comes after investigations revealed that GBA awarded contracts to private contractors and made advance payments totaling K36.7 billion, which were allegedly used for political campaigns and kickbacks to some GBA officials.
The contracts in question were meant for the construction and rehabilitation of four irrigation schemes: Nthola Ilora in Karonga, Lweya in Nkhata-Bay, Mlambe in Mangochi, and Nchalo in Chikwawa.
Eleven suspects have been arrested and charged, including GBA Chief Executive Officer Eric Chidzungu, Director of Irrigation Operations Chisomo Kumbuyo, and Director of Finance and Investments Linda Phiri.
ACB Acting Director General Gabriel Chembezi stated that the suspects have been formally charged and granted bail, with trial proceedings expected to commence later this year.
The ACB has also revealed that it will seek additional arrest warrants for other suspects who are yet to be apprehended in connection with the case.
The scandal has raised concerns about corruption and mismanagement of public funds in Malawi, with many calling for swift action to recover the stolen assets.
The ACB’s move is seen as a significant step towards holding those responsible accountable and recovering the looted funds.
The Greenbelt Authority is a government corporation established to champion large-scale commercial irrigation farming in Malawi.
The scandal has sparked outrage among Malawians, with many demanding answers on how such a massive fraud went undetected for so long.
