year-old official from Angola’s General Tax Administration (AGT) has been arrested on charges of participating in a high-profile tax fraud scheme that has shaken the country’s revenue system.
The arrest was confirmed by Chief Superintendent Manuel Halaiwa, spokesperson for the Criminal Investigation Service (SIC), who stated that the individual was apprehended on Saturday following developments in the ongoing investigation.
The suspect, a tax technician assigned to the department handling large taxpayers, is accused of playing a central role in the illicit processing of tax refunds.
“This individual was part of a scheme that severely harmed the national tax system,” Halaiwa said.
According to the authorities, the suspect is facing several serious charges, including unauthorized access to information systems, invasion of privacy through information systems, computer fraud, criminal conspiracy, and embezzlement. Investigators allege his involvement in a fraudulent VAT refund operation carried out through a compensation payment mechanism.
“The arrest of this employee results from a detailed and ongoing investigation that uncovered numerous tax entries processed using fraudulent access to the digital system.
The suspect played a direct role in this scheme,” Halaiwa added.
The scandal, which has drawn widespread public attention, has prompted calls for systemic reforms within AGT and enhanced cybersecurity measures.
The case is part of a broader anti-corruption campaign launched by Angolan authorities to restore credibility and accountability within state institutions.
As the investigation deepens, further arrests and revelations are expected in what is shaping up to be one of the most significant public finance scandals in recent years.
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