having “particular difficulties” with requests for mutual legal assistance from India and the UAE.
In December, at a meeting of the United Nations Convention against Corruption (Uncac) in Abu Dhabi, UAE, Lamola expressed concern that some countries had “mastered the art of delaying or refusing to ratify extradition treaties” and mutual legal assistance requests.
“We appeal to all those who we have approached and may still be approaching to cooperate and assist us. It would be a travesty of justice if [countries] decide to stand by and watch as our stolen assets are laundered through their financial systems whilst our economy is on a brink of collapse with dire consequences for our population,” he said at the time.
On Monday, speaking generally about the NPA, he said it was common cause that an efficient prosecuting authority was a deterrent to crime.
“As such, an NPA which is attuned to be functional, effective and professional will ultimately increase the credibility of the criminal justice system.”
He said the government would continue to support the NPA with resources to enable it to fill vacancies and modernise its system.
“The criminal justice system must function well across its entire value chain – investigations, arrests, prosecutions, finalisation of cases on time, as well as aspects relating to awaiting trial detainees and sentenced persons, including the rehabilitation of offenders,” he said.
“If the chain is weakened or broken anywhere, it leads to justice not being served – that in turn leads to legitimacy concerns and the public losing faith in the criminal justice system.”
