Authorities in the Democratic Republic of the Congo have seized about 1.9 million dollars in undeclared cash at Kinshasa’s main international airport in a case seen as an early test of the country’s new anti corruption system.
Officials said the money was intercepted during an attempted transfer by an unidentified individual while investigators examine whether the total amount could be significantly higher.
The justice minister has instructed prosecutors to handle the case thoroughly signaling that authorities consider it a high priority financial crime investigation.
Under existing laws the seized funds will be transferred to the central bank while the financial intelligence unit has launched a detailed inquiry into the origin and destination of the money.
The case comes days after major judicial reforms introduced a specialized court to handle economic and financial crimes including money laundering and fraud.
Analysts say the investigation could become one of the first major cases under the new court and may set an important precedent for enforcement.
The government hopes the reforms will strengthen transparency and boost investor confidence in the national economy.
The broader economic context including global market volatility adds urgency to efforts to protect public finances.
Investigators are expected to focus on identifying those involved and determining whether the case is linked to organized financial networks or influential figures.
Observers say the outcome will be a key indicator of the credibility of Congo’s anti corruption drive.
