The Anti-Corruption Commission (ACC) has amended its Criminal Procedure Rules to strengthen and accelerate its investigations.
According to the ACC, the amendments are aimed at improving the framework for investigating corruption cases, introducing more outcome-focused procedures, and increasing the speed at which investigations are completed.
Under the revised Criminal Procedure Rules, every case submitted to the Commission must undergo a mandatory assessment before a formal investigation begins. This assessment will consider the circumstances surrounding the case and set a timeframe for its completion.
The assessment process will evaluate cases against 10 criteria, including the public interest, the extent of any financial loss, the risk of evidence being destroyed, and the possibility of undue influence. Cases will also be categorised, with specific deadlines assigned to each category.
The ACC said that if a case cannot be concluded within the prescribed timeframe, any extension will only be granted in accordance with the procedures set out in the amended rules, following a review of the case.
The Commission stated that these amendments have been introduced as part of its new strategic plan to strengthen investigations and address delays in corruption cases. It added that the changes are expected to make the ACC's investigative process more robust and improve the procedures followed in handling corruption cases.