The State has disclosed that lawyers from the Anti-Corruption Bureau (ACB), Financial Intelligence Authority (FIA) and Malawi Revenue Authority (MRA) will join the K5 billion cement gate case.

Speaking before High Court Judge Redson Kapindu on Monday in Lilongwe, Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP) Steven Kayuni said the move is a law enforcement coordination strategy.

When asked during interviews upon adjournment of the trial, the DPP dismissed assertions that the State collaboration is aiming at capacity recognition.

“It’s not about capacity issues but it’s law enforcement coordination strategy that we need to coordinate and work together,” Kayuni said.

“This case touches on money laundering; FIA comes in on that, MRA on tax fraud and there is also allegations of abuse of office where the ACB comes in.”

The trial, which came for plea and directions on Monday, failed to proceed as planned because the State was yet to serve some of the defense lawyers disclosures.

Former President Peter Mutharika’s security aide Norman Chisale, Former State House Chief of Staff Peter Mukhitho, former MRA deputy commissioner Roza Mbilizi  and businessman Mahmed Chunara were arrested on suspicion of fraud, money laundering, abuse of office, smuggling and falsifying documents.

Meanwhile, the Court has adjourned the trial to Tuesday, March 29, 2022.