ZACC Sets Eyes On Properties Bought Through Graft In Other Countries
Zimbabwe Anti Corruption Commission (ZACC) has said they are now working on trying to recover assets that were bought by Zimbabweans using corruption proceeds, The Herald reports.
ZACC and the NPA and the Justice Ministry have reportedly sent letters seeking assistance to track down the assets that might have been bought by politicians and other people using externalized funds to the United Arab Emirates, China, South Africa, the United Kingdom, and the Isle of Man.
This was revealed by Zacc commissioner for legal affairs Ms. Jessie Majome who said the anti-graft body already has 5 cases at hand:
A total of five case files were referred to the NPA for further referral to Interpol and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs for Mutual Legal Assistance Request in different jurisdictions namely, South Africa, United Arab Emirates, United Kingdom, China and the Isle of Man.
The properties have an estimated total value of US$13 516 728.00 ($1 094 854 968. 00). The parties involved are notable politically-exposed persons, one of whom, is involved in the NatPharm saga, whom we cannot name at this stage in order not to jeopardise our investigations.
The asset forfeiture unit seized a total of 24 motor vehicles and the same are held at our offices at Number 5 Golda Avenue Strathaven, Avondale. The motor vehicles have a total value of US$1 500 000.00
A total of eight immovable properties were seized and are still under investigations. These properties are valued at US$2 070 500.00 (ZWL$165 640 000.00). Zacc is seized with 36 cases since we introduced civil asset forfeiture and recovery strategy (outside criminal convictions) as the current commission came into office in 2019,
ZACC has over the years secured very few convictions which has prompted people to label the anti-graft body a toothless bulldog. However, ZACC says it has recovered assets worth over $100 million since its incorporation in 2019.
More: The Herald
