The system is used in many countries by law enforcement institutions such as police forces and intelligence organisations.

Botswana Telecommunications Authority (BTA), the body responsible for regulating telecommunication services, was not aware of such an initiative by the police service. Martin Mokgware, Senior Manager-Market Development and Analysis at the BTA, explained that they were yet to be informed of the purchase.

"However, we occasionally work with Botswana Police on various matters relating to criminal investigations," said Mokgware. "And I do not see a reason why we would not render our assistance in this instance".

Mokgware explained that, as the body given the responsibility of regulating telecommunications, they would have to be consulted over an initiative of this sort.

"We are the ones who give out frequencies, and for any such activity to work, we will have to be part of it," he explained.

Although Botswana Police Commissioner Edwin Batshu had not responded by afternoon yesterday, Phandu Skelemani, Minister of Presidential Affairs and Public Administration, under whose portfolio the police service falls, confirmed that Botswana Police is in the process of acquiring the system.

Meanwhile, Orange Botswana, one of the service providers in the mobile phone industry, indicated they were aware of the issue. According to the tender document, the system would not be traceable by service providers such as Orange and Mascom. However, Kago Mmopi, Orange Marketing Manager, indicated that they would expect to be notified of such moves by the Police if indeed such an initiative was being pursued.

"Yes, we are aware of the issue. Naturally, as a network service provider, Orange Botswana would expect to be notified of such a system since it would be targeted at our subscriber base," explained Mmopi. "The protection of customer information and conversations, whether it's in text form or verbal, is of paramount importance to Orange. Information is only released with an approved Police Report and/or an order from the Court."

Mmopi, however, acknowledged that private companies have to abide by the laws of the country.

"We would have to comply with whatever legislation is passed in this regard," he conceded.

At the Gaborone Sun yesterday, Skelemani told a panel discussion on the Security and Intelligence Bill that the process of acquiring the system was already on.

"I can confirm that indeed I am aware of that system," admitted Skelemani. "I have not had time to interview the Commissioner on this issue yet but, yes, it is true that the police service is purchasing the system."