This archive report was first published on 4 October 2019.
On October 4, 2019, Tanzania took a significant step in addressing economic crimes by opening a special bank account for those accused of economic sabotage to return money in exchange for amnesty.
According to the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP), Mr. Biswalo Mganga, the account was opened at the Bank of Tanzania, providing a clear and secure channel for those seeking pardon.
President John Magufuli had previously extended the amnesty deadline for those charged with tax evasion, money laundering, and other financial crimes from September 29 to October 6.
As of the deadline, 467 people had promised to return the money in exchange for having their economic sabotage charges dropped.
However, the DPP warned against unscrupulous individuals, including lawyers, who were allegedly hoodwinking the accused by claiming they would help them deposit money at the DPP's office.
"It is not true," Mr. Mganga asserted, emphasizing that any money deposited in another account would not be recognized.
He further clarified that those seeking pardon would have to deposit the money into the central bank account after approval by the court.
