Diamond Trading Company Botswana (DTCB) this week joined mining houses with a hotline that will give whistle blowers a chance to report illicit diamond dealings, especially at a time when the country has lost revenues because of global economic recession.
Officials of DTCB stated on Thursday that the toll free number came as a realisation that, as players in the diamond industry, they have to protect whistle blowers.
Pat Jacobs, the company’s Head of Operations, stated that the toll free number (0800 700 706) represents what the company stands for.
“It represents a single contributor to GDP and direct government spending,” said Jacobs. He added that security represent equity of our company.
“The security is for our (staff) protection and protection of our staff is very paramount,” he added.
Jacobs said that although security is always seen as hindrance by staff, the DTCB staff should support the toll free initiative.
The launch of the toll free number attracted players in the industry, including sight holders and members of Diamond and Narcotics Squad.
Christopher Mbulawa, Assistant Commissioner (Public Relations Unit) of Botswana Police Service, said it is important to have toll free numbers.
He said diamonds are the future of this country and implored staff of DTCB to report anyone involved in illicit diamond dealings.
“Stealing of diamonds will make Botswana diamonds valueless more than the current credit crisis,” stated the Assistant Commissioner.
