04 Feb 2022

The Directorate of Intelligence and Security (DIS) notes with regret a recent statement, on the operations of the Directorate, attributed to the Law Society of Botswana (LSB).

According to the media release from DIS, the directorate regards LSB as an important stakeholder as it is a key contributor to the discourse on the oversight and governance of public entities.

However it says, the statement has the potential to misguide and alarm the public unnecessarily.

It further pointed out that contrary to the LSB’s recent allegations and assertions on the operation of the Directorate, the Intelligence and Security Service Act (2008) which established DIS does not empower it to usurp the powers of the Police, DCEC and DPP says the release.

The reality is that all these agencies were established by different and independent Acts, the DIS cooperates and works closely with all agencies of law enforcement and other government institutions says the release.

This is not only standard practice but necessary as it results in efficient strategic communication, shrewd usage of the already limited resources, effective intelligence gathering and sharing, as well as effective investigations and prosecute

The communication further assured the public that the Directorate will always conduct its affairs according to its establishing Act, and within the confines of the laws of Botswana.

It is always Director General Brigadier Peter Magosi’s wish that continued constructive public views about the Directorate could eventually contribute to improved accountability now and beyond his tenure. ENDS