By Mark Ziligone
The Anti-Corruption Commission –ACC- has arrested and charged four more officers from the Ministry of Fisheries and Livestock over the alleged misuse of part of a $10 million loan from the African Development Bank, obtained by the Government in 2019.
ACC Director-General DAPHNE CHABU has confirmed that the four officers face charges related to the corrupt acquisition of public property, Possession of property suspected to be proceeds of crime, and concealment of assets.
Ms. CHABU says these latest arrests bring the total number of suspects involved in the Strategic Livestock Investment and Management Project –SLIMP- case to seven.
Speaking at a press briefing in Lusaka today, she revealed that among the arrested is EMMANUEL CHILALA, an accountant.
He has been charged with multiple counts of corrupt acquisition of public property, following his alleged diversion of over 15 million Kwacha into his personal account.
Ms. CHABU further disclosed that Mr. CHILALA is also facing charges of possession and concealment of property, after allegedly transferring ownership of houses and a farm to his close family members.
Another suspect, ACKIM MWALILINO, an Acting Livestock Research Production Officer, has been charged with corrupt acquisition of public property.
He also faces charges related to possession of property suspected to be proceeds of crime, valued at over 3 million Kwacha.
In addition, SHARON HIKAUMBA, a stenographer at the Ministry of Agriculture and the spouse of Mr. CHILALA, has been charged with the concealment of property.
This involves motor vehicles worth approximately 1.5 million Kwacha.
Lastly, KABEMBA MWAMBILWA, an Assistant Director for Livestock Development, has been charged with possession of property reasonably believed to be proceeds of crime, valued at over 11 million Kwacha.
Ms. CHABU confirmed that the Commission has restricted 37 properties across the country, including houses, farms, and motor vehicles, all valued at a total of 59 million Kwacha.
