DCEC received 687 reports in 2024
The Directorate on Corruption and Economic Crime (DCEC) received 687 reports alleging corruption and economic crime in 2024.
DCEC Director General, Botlhale Makgekgenene said on Tuesday at a meet and greet with the media in Francistown that out of the 687 reports received, 238 were classified for investigation, constituting 34 percent.
Makgekgenene said the rest of the reports were either referred to other Institutions for appropriate action, as they were considered outside the Directorate’s mandate, or advice given to sources or informants to pursue the matter.
Further, out of the 238 cases classified for investigation, 221 were corruption-related; seven involved economic crimes; and 10 were related to money laundering.
“The Directorate is aware of the corruption allegations or issues within state-owned institutions or Parastatals, and we have constituted investigations into those, which are at different stages, some are at an advanced stage, while some are still at the early stages.
The major issue that cuts across all the concerned state-owned enterprises is more on poor regulation and non-compliance with procurement processes,' Makgekgenene said.
Besides investigations, they are working on recommending corrective measures to improve governance and prevent corruption, at the same time ensuring that procurement processes are transparent and competitive.
They are also aware of high-profile cases reported in some media outlets. While these are not yet ready to be shared with the media, journalists were assured that when the time is right, the.
“The role of social media and technology in the dissemination of real-time news and information cannot be overstated. As we navigate the complex landscape of corruption and economic crime, we must strengthen avenues and channels for consistent, healthy, and constructive dialogue.'
She added that collaboration between entities can ensure vigilance and proactiveness in combating corruption, thus enhancing the economic standing and good governance of the nation.
'I must acknowledge that the fight against corruption is fraught with challenges. Every day we encounter obstacles that test our operational effectiveness, strategies, and capabilities as an anti-corruption agency,” Makgekgenene remarked.
She said Investigative journalism, in particular, remains a crucial counterforce against misinformation, as it uncovers the truth and holds those in positions of power accountable.
Makgekgenene shared that the media stands as a key partner in the national fight against corruption as it serves as a powerful tool for transparency by informing the public, exposing corrupt practices, and stimulating national dialogue.
The DCEC is mandated to safeguard the nation’s public and economic resources through the development and implementation of robust anti-corruption strategies.
“These efforts are guided by the Corruption and Economic Crime Act of 1994. To fulfil this mandate, the DCEC operates under a three-pronged strategic approach: Public Education, Corruption Prevention, and Investigation,” Makgekgenene said.