By Tellah Hazinji
Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP) Gilbert Phiri has announced a significant increase in asset forfeiture efforts, regardless of ongoing criticisms. In an interview with Phoenix News, Mr. Phiri stated that his office will intensify the application of asset forfeiture measures at the conclusion of corruption-related cases.
Mr. Phiri emphasized his strong belief in the forfeiture of proceeds of crime, citing the Forfeiture of Proceeds of Crime Act as a key tool for this initiative. He noted that the law allows for both conviction and non-conviction forfeitures, and he encouraged critics who oppose asset forfeiture to advocate for legal amendments in Parliament if they wish to challenge the practice.
Addressing concerns about potential corruption within the system, Mr. Phiri assured that robust safeguards are in place to prevent misuse of the forfeiture process. He defended the practice as a necessary measure to combat corruption and recover ill-gotten assets, reinforcing the DPP’s commitment to this approach.
The DPP’s announcement reflects a firm stance on leveraging asset forfeiture as a critical component of the fight against corruption in the country.
