An evaluation of fraud investigation at Mbabane police station, Eswatini

Abstract

Investigating commercial crime presents significant challenges due to the inherent diversity and multifaceted nature of reported cases. Notwithstanding robust political will and commitment to combatting corruption, the Kingdom of Eswatini continues to grapple with significant levels of corruption. This issue persists despite the unequivocal pronouncements of His Majesty King Mswati III, who has consistently urged Emaswati to abstain from corrupt practices to facilitate sustainable economic growth. To that end, the study evaluated fraud investigation at Mbabane Police Station, Eswatini, focusing on law enforcement agencies. The study explored the roles played by each stakeholder using the various pieces of legislation which empower them to deal with commercial crime at different levels including gathering information for adding value to the investigation of commercial crime. The study adopted an empirical research design within a qualitative approach. Twelve participants (eight males and four females), who were purposively selected participated in the study. The sample was drawn from the Royal Eswatini Police Service (REPS), the Anti-Corruption Commission (ACC), and the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP), which are the main law enforcement agencies on crime and corruption in Eswatini. Data were collected using a review of local and international review and semi-structured interviews. Local literature included legislation used by law enforcement agencies to gather, preserve, and present evidence in a court of law. The data were analysed thematically using content analysis. The main findings underscore the need for continuous professional devolvement of the relevant stakeholders in investigating commercial crime in the Kingdom of Eswatini. The findings also highlight the importance of collaboration among key stakeholders in investigating commercial crime to ensure crimes are successfully prosecuted. Based on the findings, the study provides recommendations for practice, policy, and further study. The study enhances how investigations are conducted by recommending improved ways of conducting investigations as well as proposed amendments to legislation which will improve commercial crime investigation. These recommendations are meant to address the gaps revealed by the findings. The significance of the study lies in reporting findings from the Eswatini context, where no similar studies could be found.