Fatshimetrie, July 16, 2024 – Transparency and accountability are the key words in the management of seized and confiscated property in the Democratic Republic of Congo. Indeed, public and private companies operating on Congolese territory have received an urgent call from the Ministry of Justice to report the state of the seized goods in their possession.
This directive, emanating from the office of the Minister of State in charge of Justice, aims to guarantee better management of seized assets in order to effectively combat embezzlement and money laundering. The Commission for the Management of Seized and Confiscated Assets (Cogebisco) was appointed to supervise this operation and ensure that assets seized or confiscated by public and private companies are duly listed and preserved in a transparent manner.
It is essential that commercial banks, the Central Bank of Congo, as well as other entities such as the DGDA and Onatra, comply with this request within 72 hours. The objective is to strengthen cooperation between public and private institutions to ensure rigorous management of seized property, thus contributing to the preservation of the integrity of the Congolese judicial system.
The observation made by the Ministry of Justice reveals gaps in the process of transmitting seized objects and associated reports to Cogebisco. This is why a formal instruction was issued to judicial police officers and public prosecutors to encourage them to strictly comply with the legal provisions in force.
The fight against corruption and money laundering is a priority for the Congolese authorities, and the proper management of seized assets is one of the pillars of this approach. By strengthening coordination between the actors involved in the management of seized and confiscated assets, the Democratic Republic of Congo demonstrates its determination to ensure transparent and efficient administration of these assets crucial for justice and social equity.
In short, the directive from the Ministry of Justice demonstrates the desire of the Congolese authorities to promote good governance and integrity in the management of seized property. This initiative marks an important step towards consolidating the rule of law and the fight against financial crime, while strengthening citizens’ confidence in the institutions responsible for ensuring equity and justice in the country.