Head of the Immigration Department, Charles Kalumo, has revealed that the passport issuance system was compromised by Hackers on January 19th this year.
Kalumo mentioned that efforts are underway to rectify the situation and improve the entire process of passport issuance.
He urged the media and other well wishers in the capital city of Lilongwe to remain vigilant in exposing all those behind these actions as it pose a National threat.
Meanwhile, the Minister of Justice and Constitutional Affairs, Hon. Titus Mvalo. , has announced the formation of a committee to address such issues, especially considering President Lazarus Chakwera’s directive that these reforms should be implemented within three months.
According to reports, individuals suspected of hacking into the Passport Issuing System at the Department of Immigration and Citizen Services are demanding approximately K2 billion to relinquish control of the system.
Minister of Homeland Security, Ken Zikhale Ng’oma, revealed this during a press briefing in Lilongwe, stating that the government refuses to comply with the ransom demands, as efforts are already underway to address the issue.
Ng’oma contends that such incidents are not uncommon and cites examples from the banking sector, where similar breaches occur. “People hack bank systems. This is not unique; it happens in other countries too. We are committed to restoring the passport system within three weeks,” Ng’oma explained.
Meanwhile, Immigration Director General, Brigadier General Charles Kalumo (retired), stated that they have successfully recovered 90 percent of the compromised system. “Let’s unite as Malawians to combat this threat. Our system has been attacked, and together, we can work to ensure its recovery,” Kalumo urged.
At present, the Minister of Home Affairs, Dr. Kenneth Zikhale Ng’oma, has assured the public that everything will be rectified promptly.
Avantmalawi.com