Maravi

‘Zambian Airways, MoH scam investigations have progressed’

‘Zambian Airways, MoH scam investigations have progressed’
By Masuzyo Chakwe
Wed 23 Dec. 2009, 04:01 CAT

INSPECTOR General of Police Francis Kabonde yesterday said investigations into the operations of Zambian Airways and the Ministry of Health's K27 billion scam have progressed.

Briefing the press, Kabonde said much more progress had been made on the Ministry of Health scam where people were still appearing in court.

On the issue of Zambian Airways, Kabonde said the investigative wings were still getting more evidence from abroad and had even written to the host countries to get mutual legal assistant to clear the way if evidence was to be taken from there.

And Kabonde said all those who would be nabbed during this festive season would 'celebrate' their Christmas and New Year in police custody and would only be released on January 2, 2010.

Kabonde said all commanding officers had therefore been directed to decongest the cells to create room for would-be offenders during the festive period.

He said all commanding officers in divisions had been directed to intensify both motorised and foot patrols in all densely populated areas and to ensure that all bars were closed within the stipulated time and arrest the under-age found in those places.

"As we have entered Christmas and New Year periods, as usual, there is excitement in and around the country particularly in urban areas. To some people, this is the time for prayers in remembrance of the birth of Jesus Christ while for others it is time for merry making, parties and holidays. Unfortunately, it is also a time when crime and traffic accidents increase," he said.

Kabonde said there were 248 road traffic accidents between December 2008 and January 2009 out of which 15 people died and 57 were seriously injured.

He said additionally, many people lost property in thefts while others were assaulted.
He advised people not to carry with them huge sums of money, not buy in excess and flash their wallets more especially at tills in shopping outlets as this often attracted criminals.
Kabonde urged people to avoid drunkenness, as it was not only unhealthy to a person but also dangerous to the family.

"Drink moderately and in so doing, please do not drive as you will put not only your life at stake but that of other road users. Our advice to you is that you lessen unnecessary movements on the roads and if possible remain indoors with your families. To those who will be travelling for holidays to celebrate their Christmas and New Year, you ought to be wary of people you meet on the way," he said

Kabonde also said the year 2009 had seen crime rates reducing in Lusaka.
He said in the past year, there were many cases of aggravated robberies on a daily basis and four to five thefts of motor vehicles daily, but now there was nothing sometimes.

Labels: CORRUPTION, FRANCIS KABONDE, MINISTRY OF HEALTH, ZAMBIAN AIRWAYS

posted by MrK @ 4:22 AM