Katima Mulilo, four employees of the Zambezi Regional Council have been detained in connection with a corruption investigation led by the Anti-Corruption Commission (ACC). Josefina Nghituwamata, the Public Relations Officer at the ACC, officially confirmed the arrests today.
The four individuals in question made their appearance in the Katima Mulilo Regional Court, where they were each granted bail of N$50,000. It is alleged that these employees are at the center of an embezzlement scheme involving approximately N$4 million in public funds.
The charges brought against them are in violation of section 43(1) read with section 35 of the Anti-Corruption Act, 2003 (Act No. 8 of 2003). They are accused of corruptly using their positions or offices for personal gratification, a grave offense that carries significant legal consequences.
This recent scandal follows closely on the heels of the arrest of the Karasburg Mayor and two councilors just last week. These officials were subsequently granted bail of N$1000 over the weekend after facing charges related to conspiracy and the abuse of power, also in violation of the Anti-Corruption Act.
It highlights the determination of the Anti-Corruption Commission to root out corruption at all levels of government, sending a clear message that those engaged in corrupt practices will face the full force of the law.