[2] Its primary mandate is to provide anti-corruption, forensic investigation, and litigation services to combat corruption, serious malpractice, and maladministration in state institutions.

[3] It therefore not only investigates cases but also is empowered to take civil action to correct wrongdoing which it uncovers, including by recovering financial losses suffered by the state.

[4] Its mandate was to investigate serious malpractice or maladministration in connection with the administration of state institutions, assets, or money, as well as any conduct which may seriously harm the interests of the public.

[2] Although it was intended to be a temporary body, it continued its anti-corruption work until dissolved by a 2001 Constitutional Court ruling.

[4] Under President Jacob Zuma, the agency was part of the government's multi-disciplinary Anti-Corruption Task Team.