Financial Intelligence Agency takes off

Supported by Ministry of Finance and Development Planning officials, the FIA's five experts are presently head-hunting a director, formulating an "extensive" work plan and preparing to study local trends in money laundering, financial crime and other vices targeted by the FIA Act.

Yesterday, Assistant Finance and Development Planning Minister, Charles Tibone, said government's intentions of "massively" kick-starting the Agency were inhibited by budgetary constraints. Earlier this year, Finance Minister, Kenneth Matambo, announced that the FIA's development would be suspended "until such time that resources permit." However, government, supported by the US Department of Treasury, has since rescinded that position.