The government has ordered relevant authorities to crack down on corruption cases, as an investigation is underway to reveal the damage caused by the abuse of power by those in charge, according to Vice-Senior General Soe Win, Vice Chairman of the State Administration Council.

He made the remark during a speech at the ceremony to mark the International Anti-corruption Day in Nay Pyi Taw on December 9.

Corruption can take place through various ways and means by abusing money, property and authority in political, economic and administrative fields. Corruption is the main factor that not only affects the economy of the country but also hinders the efforts for poverty reduction and development of the country. Therefore, effective action is and will be taken against those who seek personal interests by violating the policies of the country and those who betray the country by deviating from the roadmap and objectives laid down by the country without discrimination, he said.

In investigating the losses caused by corrupt officials in authority, the government has instructed authorities concerned to take strong and effective action against corruption cases. As for the Anti-Corruption Commission, it was found that in addition to confiscating things as public funds, returning them to the State, protecting and rescuing the property without any loss or damage, it was also found that the prosecution and punishment were carried out in an orderly manner in accordance with the law, the SAC vice chair commented.

The commission's investigations and prosecutions resulted in the collection of public funds and the return of over 23 billion kyats and over US$4 million to the national treasury and the recovery of over 155 billion kyats and over 3 million Euros in preventing loss and damage. The commission also managed to force the relevant companies to return the money, property and taxes owed by the State, he added.

“Corruption undermines good governance and threatens the rule of law and civil rights. It also creates an obstacle for the ethics, values and moral integrity to be observed in the society. Therefore, I urge government departments, organizations and the private sector as well as the public as a whole to join hands and cooperate with each other in combating corruption,” Vice-Senior General Soe Win said.