By Sizwe Dlamini
Senior Deputy Director Commissioner of Police under the Crime Unit, Mumpsy Dlamini, has revealed that approximately E6 million has been stolen from EmaSwati due to cybercrime since January 2024, with 237 incidents reported.
Dlamini noted that E2.4 million has been lost through various electronic wallet scams known as “Facata scams,” leading to the arrest of 19 individuals involved in these crimes.
Dlamini made these remarks during the opening ceremony of the Cybersecurity Workshop for Prosecutors and the Judiciary, held at the Hilton Garden Inn Hotel in Mbabane.
The Ministry of Information, Communications, and Technology (ICT) and the Eswatini Communications Commission (ESCCOM) hosted the workshop. Dlamini emphasized the complexity of cybercrime stating that innovative solutions and partnerships are crucial in addressing these challenges.
“We lack training in strengthening cybersecurity in Eswatini, and these workshops are addressing a vital gap in our current cybersecurity landscape,” she said.
This workshop coincides with the last day of Global Cybersecurity Month and Eswatini’s Cybersecurity Month, themed ‘Asiphepheni: Let’s Secure Our World.’
Dlamini expressed gratitude to the Ministry of ICT and ESCCOM for their support, highlighting that the workshop ensures that all participants are equipped to handle cybercrime and the necessary processes associated with it including maintaining a proper chain of custody.
She noted that due to the complexity and nature of cybercrime public involvement is essential for a unified response, as law enforcement alone does not have all the answers.
“Collaboration with technological experts in the public, private, and academic sectors is vital,” she added.
Dlamini emphasized that partnerships with those possessing cyber skills complement efforts to combat cybercrime, particularly in collaboration with the financial sector, as the impact on communities is significant.
Dlamini concluded by highlighting the strides made through current programs, which signal the significant impact that can be achieved through collaboration with various stakeholders in this important initiative.
“As we navigate this complex highway of cyber threats, addressing the innovative challenges we face through training and collaboration is essential.”