Inside the armoured cars procurement that shook DIS
Friday, October 21, 2022 | 6600 Views |
Armoured Lexus LX-570 ballistic resistant
Following the conclusion of an investigation relating to the leakage of classified information about the procurement of armoured vehicles for specialised use by Very Very Important People (VVIP), information reaching Mmegi shows that a DIS agent was allegedly ensnared by the International Armoured Group (IAG), during the 2019 International Defence Exhibition and Conference (IDEX), therefore, leading to the government procuring the lucrative toys.
IAG is one of the largest privately owned armoured vehicle manufacturers in the world and during the 2019 IDEX, the IAG amongst others unveiled three new armoured vehicles specifically designed for modern military and law enforcement units.
Whilst celebrating milestones in inclusivity, with notably P5 billion awarded to vulnerable groups, the report sounds a 'siren' on a dangerous and growing trend: the ballooning use of micro-procurement. That this method, designed for small-scale, efficient purchases, now accounts for a staggering 25% (P8 billion) of total procurement value is not a sign of agility, but a 'red flag'. The PPRA’s warning is unequivocal and must be...