The Executive Director of the Anti-Corruption Commission (ACC), Tylvas Shilongo, has reiterated that a shortage of investigators and a lack of specialised courts are some of the challenges impeding the resolution of cases.

Shilongo made these comments during a media briefing.

"Some alleged corruption cases remain a daunting task and complex to handle; hence, the need to have specialised courts to handle these offences of corruption. It's the Commission's hope that with dedicated courts, cases will be handled faster, more effectively, and more efficiently. The shortage of investigators at ACC continues to hamper the Commission's speedy investigation of cases. There is a need for the Commission to create more positions for investigators with relevant expertise."

During the 2022–23 financial year, the directorate of investigation received 142 new cases, of which 87 were finalised. Out of the 327 backlog cases, 86 were completed.

"With regard to corruption cases finalised in court, during the period under review, a total of 22 cases were finalised. 11 accused persons were convicted and sentenced, of whom two were given direct imprisonment, while nine got options for fines or jail sentences. I am also delighted to mention that 38 case dockets were submitted to the Prosecutor General's Office for a decision in terms of Section 31 of the Anti-Corruption Act."

Shilongo mentioned that the Commission's investigations can be complex and often necessitate the use of sophisticated techniques and resources.

However, he also emphasised that these investigations have proven highly effective in identifying and dismantling criminal networks as well as recovering assets.

"The Commission has achieved notable success in cases involving fraud, money laundering, and other economic crimes. In this regard, the Commission has successfully identified and shut down networks of financial and commodities traders, with many offenders charged and assets confiscated."

The ACC has stated its commitment to collaborating with local and international law enforcement agencies to identify the beneficiaries of illegal activities.

As a result, the recovery and return of stolen assets to their rightful owners are prioritised by the ACC.

However, at the time the story aired, the ACC was unable to provide nbc News with an estimated value of the stolen assets.