Maputo, 28 Jul (AIM) – Two Mozambican public officials were caught red-handed taking a bribe on 20 July, according to the Maputo Provincial Office for the Fight against Corruption (GPCCM), cited in Friday’s issue of the independent newssheet, “Carta de Moçambique”.
One of those detained works for the National Environmental Quality Control Agency (AQUA), while the other is from the Planning and Infrastructure Service of Moamba district, about 80 kilometres north of Maputo city.
They were caught because whistle-blowers told the anti-corruption office that they had demanded money from two drivers, who were transporting construction sand and other minerals. The drivers said they were told to pay up, otherwise they would be fined for illegal exploitation of mineral resources.
But when they went to hand over the bribe, the police were waiting and they were arrested.
The GPCCM has initiated criminal proceedings, charging the two officials with corruption and abuse of office.
When they appeared before the Maputo Provincial Court, in the city of Matola, last Monday, they were released on payment of bail of 100,000 meticais (about 1,560 US dollars, at the current exchange rate).
(AIM)
Pf/ (190)