Corruption
What is Corruption?
Public sector corruption is a form of dishonesty or criminal offense committed by a person or an organization which is entrusted with a position of authority, in order to acquire illicit benefits or abuse power for one's private gain. Grand Corruption typically involves bribery and embezzlement occurring at the highest levels of government in a way that requires significant subversion of the political, legal and economic systems.
Public sector corruption involves the misuse of public power or position with an expectation of undue private gain or advantage (for self or others). It may include:
-
Bribery
-
Embezzlement
-
Fraud
-
Extortion
-
Trading in influence
-
Perverting the course of justice
-
Exchanging goods for money or information.
Corrupt conduct can occur directly through the improper or unlawful actions of public sector officials or through the actions of individuals operating in the private sector who attempt to inappropriately influence the functions of government.
MOCA investigates major or high-level offences committed by Public Sector workers, including Government Officials. The Agency conducts both reactive and proactive investigation, in the form of STING Operations and Trace Investigations.
In the course of these investigations, the Department is guided by the following pieces of legislation;
-
Proceeds of Crime Act 2007
-
The Corruption Prevention Act and Larceny Act.