Controversy Over Suspicious Audio Recording Involving Former MT CEO

The Ministry of Information Technology has issued a statement regarding a potentially damaging audio recording linked to Sherry Singh, the former Chief Executive Officer of Mauritius Telecom. Singh has strongly denied the allegations and is considering legal action in response to the claims.

The situation came to light following a press release from the Ministry of Information Technology, Communication, and Innovation on Thursday morning, September 19.

The ministry expressed serious concerns about the circulation of a suspicious audio file on various messaging platforms.

This recording allegedly featured Singh discussing the existence of recorded conversations involving high-ranking political officials.

According to the ministry, Singh reportedly indicated a willingness to use these recordings for manipulative purposes, potentially with the aid of artificial intelligence (AI).

In its statement, the ministry emphasized that recording or intercepting phone calls without the consent of the parties involved is illegal, except under a court order.

This legal framework is outlined in Section 8 of the Cybersecurity & Cybercrime Act of 2021.

Additionally, Sections 32 and 46 of the Information and Communication Technologies Act of 2001 govern the handling and dissemination of illegally obtained data.

The ministry asserted that any violations of these laws would lead to severe penalties, reaffirming its commitment to enforcing existing regulations.

The individual at the center of the controversy is clearly Sherry Singh, who stepped down as CEO of Mauritius Telecom in June 2022.

In an interview on September 19 afternoon, Singh expressed his disbelief over the accusations.

“Apparently, I have access to phone conversations of high-ranking political figures. This is completely false. I do not possess such recordings.

If I did, how would I have obtained them, considering the Prime Minister stated that there is no phone tapping or sniffing occurring?” he stated.

Singh further highlighted that he left Mauritius Telecom over two years ago and mentioned that the company does not have the capabilities to conduct phone surveillance.

“Would such activities be happening elsewhere?” he questioned. He also noted that his residence had been searched multiple times by police, with no recordings ever found.

“I don’t know if they are panicking or if they are preparing something against me, especially after my recent media appearance,” Singh added.

Additionally, Singh claimed to have received a copy of the audio recording referenced by the ministry.

“It is clear that this has been fabricated. I supposedly stated that I can use AI to fabricate phone conversations. But why would I do that if I already had the recordings?

Let’s say someone indeed possessed recordings—why would they be afraid if they have nothing to hide?” he argued.

As a co-leader of the political party One Moris, Singh expressed his concern over the Ministry’s insinuations.

“I am not aware of any phone conversations nor do I possess anything, but I find it quite troubling that a government ministry would issue a statement suggesting I am involved in this matter,” he said.

He is currently consulting with his legal advisors to determine his next steps.

Details of the Audio Recording

The disputed audio recording, which lasts one minute and 45 seconds, is set in a bustling environment with background noise from dishes and glasses.

A voice resembling Singh’s can be heard saying: “It is time that I withdraw what is mine. I won’t let them get away…

Thanks to Danesh, we have managed to get some recordings and all the equipment we have installed…

We haven’t captured anything interesting politically, but the serious matter is that we could do a bit of sampling. Today, with AI, we can make it say what we want.”

Another voice responded: “This AI stuff, I am not too comfortable with it.”

Singh’s voice replied: “Leave the strategy to me. Don’t worry, I will handle it.”

The conversation concluded with the other voice suggesting switching topics, saying, “There are people here. Let’s discuss this later.”

Source: Defi Media