INVESTIGATIONS

🧩 Think of the Department as an evidence-driven hub—where complaints, intelligence, and data converge to uncover the truth, much like an evolving “evidence board” piecing together case files, patterns, and investigative leads.

The Investigations Department is the investigative nerve centre of the Anti-Corruption Commission (ACC). Mandated under the Anti-Corruption Act No. 3 of 2012, we are responsible for receiving, analysing, and investigating reports of alleged or suspected corrupt practices. Our work transforms information into evidence, ensuring that allegations are thoroughly examined and that justice is served.

From intelligence gathering to asset tracing, we employ modern techniques to uncover corrupt networks and hold offenders accountable. We are committed to transparency, due process, and the protection of public resources

PRINCIPLE FUNCTIONS

Complaint Management

Receiving and investigating complaints of alleged or suspected corrupt practices We receive and evaluate reports of corruption from the public through various channels, including toll-free lines, email, WhatsApp, and our anonymous online portal. Every complaint is carefully assessed to determine its validity and the appropriate course of action.

Intelligence Gathering

Conducting intelligence gathering and data analysis to support investigations

Through data analysis, surveillance, and proactive intelligence operations, we identify corrupt networks, patterns of illicit activity, and emerging threats. This intelligence-led approach enables us to detect corruption before it matures and to build comprehensive cases against offenders.

Asset Tracing

We investigate “lifestyle” offenses where public officers possess wealth disproportionate to their official income. By tracing assets and examining financial records, we establish whether individuals have acquired property or wealth that cannot be explained by their past and present legitimate earnings.

Evidence Collection

Once the Director General authorizes inquiries, our investigators conduct thorough inquiries into allegations to establish whether an offense has been committed under the Anti-Corruption Act. We gather admissible evidence through witness interviews, document examination, forensic analysis, and other lawful investigative methods. When sufficient evidence is established, the Commission proceeds to arrest the suspect and arraign them before court for prosecution.

INVESTIGATIVE PROCESS

Once the Commission receives a report of suspected corruption, the Director General authorises a preliminary or Full-Scale Iinquiry. These inquiries aim to assess the credibility of the allegations and determine whether a full investigation is warranted. Our investigators then apply Intelligence Gathering techniques to understand the scope of the alleged corruption, followed by Asset Tracing where applicable to examine the financial dimensions of the case. Through rigorous Evidence Collection, we gather admissible evidence to establish whether an offense was committed under the Anti-Corruption Act. Where sufficient evidence is established, the Commission proceeds to arrest the suspect and arraign them before court for prosecution. Where evidence is insufficient, the case may be closed or alternative action taken.

A formal investigation then seeks to establish:

• Whether an offence has been committed under the Anti-Corruption Act No.3 of 20212
• The individuals involved
• The extent and impact of the alleged wrongdoing

Investigations are guided by evidence, including witness statements, financial records, and other relevant materials.

Possible Outcomes of an Investigation

An investigation may lead to several outcomes: –

1. Prosecution

Where sufficient evidence is established, and upon consent from the Director of Public Prosecutions for offenses under the AC Act No.3 of 2012, the suspect is arrested and brought before the courts for prosecution under the Anti-Corruption Act.

2. Exoneration

If no evidence of wrongdoing is found, the accused individual is cleared of all allegations.

3. Administrative Action

In cases where evidence is insufficient to meet the threshold required in court, but concerns remain:

• Recommendations may be made for disciplinary or administrative measures
• Corruption prevention interventions may be introduced to address systemic weaknesses

4. Referral to Other Agencies

Where a matter falls outside the Commission’s jurisdiction, it may be referred to relevant authorities such as:

• Zambia Police (for offences like theft or fraud)
• Drug Enforcement Commission (for drug-related offences)

This ensures that all cases are handled by the most appropriate institution.

Legal Framework: Anti-Corruption Act No. 3 of 2012

The Anti-Corruption Act provides the legal foundation for investigations and defines corruption-related offences. These include:

• Gratification-related offences
  Soliciting, offering, giving, or receiving any form of gratification in exchange for a favour. Gratification includes both monetary and non-monetary benefits.
• Abuse of Authority of Office
  Misuse of public authority for personal or private gain.
• Possession of Unexplained Wealth
  A public officer who lives beyond their known lawful income may be required to account for their assets. Failure to provide a reasonable explanation may lead to the presumption of illicit enrichment.

Impact and Accountability

Since its establishment, the Commission has investigated numerous corruption cases under the Act, as documented in its Annual Reports. Beyond enforcement, the Investigations Department plays a critical role in:

• Strengthening accountability
• Identifying systemic vulnerabilities
• Supporting broader corruption prevention efforts

A Modern Investigative Approach

Today’s investigations go beyond traditional methods. By integrating intelligence analysis, financial tracking, and inter-agency collaboration, the Department continues to evolve into a proactive force—detecting not just acts of corruption, but the systems that enable them. Investigations Department.

Uncovering the Truth. Upholding Justice.