By Suleman Chitera
The Anti-Corruption Bureau (ACB) has arrested former Head of Permits at the Department of Immigration and Citizenship Services, Alexander Maseko, on allegations of neglect of official duty linked to the issuance of a work permit to a foreign national.
According to the ACB, investigations revealed that Maseko allegedly authorized the issuance of a Temporary Employment Permit in January 2023 without ensuring that the mandatory permit issuance fee of US$2,000 had been paid by the applicant.ACB Cracks Down on Passport Corruption as 21 Immigration Complaints Trigger Probe
The anti-graft body says the omission resulted in the government losing revenue and raised concerns over compliance with immigration procedures and regulations governing foreign employment permits.
Maseko appeared before the Chief Resident Magistrate’s Court on Friday, where he was formally charged under Section 121 of the Penal Code, which deals with neglect of official duty by public officers.
During the court proceedings, the magistrate granted him bail subject to several conditions. These include the payment of a K500,000 cash bond, the provision of two sureties bonded at K1 million each, and a requirement to report to the ACB every fortnight.ACB assures more arrest warrants for the suspects
The arrest forms part of the ACB’s ongoing efforts to strengthen accountability and combat corruption and misconduct within public institutions.
Authorities have indicated that investigations into the matter are continuing, and further action may be taken depending on the outcome of the inquiry.
The case has attracted public interest as Malawi intensifies efforts to ensure transparency and proper management of immigration and government revenue systems.Malawi Government Unveils Plans for Modern Kameza Interchange as M1 Highway Expansion Gains Momentum