Expert speaks on security at ACB

A security expert has commended Anti-Corruption Bureau (ACB) for taking precautionary measures by issuing a security alert for its staff.

In a memorandum dated January 13 2020, which The Nation has seen, the bureau advises all staff to be leaving office premises by 5.30pm for their safety and security.

A lecturer in the department of governance, peace and security studies at Mzuzu University, Eugenio Njoloma, in an interview on Tuesday said the ongoing investigations into alleged bribery attempts on judges handling the presidential election nullification case is serious, adding that the bureau officers need tight security.

He said if threats are issued to bureau officers, it may mean that the society is young democratically and does not understand values of democracy which is upholding the rule of law.

Said Njoloma: “Failure to uphold the legal processes is a threat to security because laws are instituted to enhance or environment.” foster a conducive secure

Speaking to journalists during a media briefing held at the bureaus offices in Lilongwe on Tuesday, ACB director general Reyneck Matemba confirmed the bureau is beefing up security for its officers.

However, the memo, also signed by Matemba, is urging the officers to report to their seniors all threats or intimidation targeted at them for immediate action.

“In the event that it has become extremely necessary for an officer to remain in his or her office and work beyond 5.30pm, advance notice should be provided to the Director or Head of officers department or section, respectively,” the statement reads in part.

The communication also urged all directors and heads of Sections to ensure that officers under them strictly abide to the memo.