A Ministry of Health employee, Samuela Tuibeqa, aged 50, has been released on bail after being accused of unlawfully gaining $7,000. His initial court appearance took place before Magistrate Yogesh Prasad, where Tuibeqa faced allegations of fraud involving false claims for overtime, meal allowances, and additional country allowances during the period from August 1 to December 31, 2019.
The Fiji Independent Commission Against Corruption (FICAC) is pursuing the case, and Mr. Tuibeqa has been given a period of 28 days to secure legal representation. Magistrate Prasad cautioned him that failure to have a lawyer at the next court appearance could result in him being remanded for wasting the court’s time. The case has been scheduled for a plea hearing on December 13.
This incident underscores the ongoing efforts by authorities to combat corruption and misuse of public funds. With a legal process in motion, there is hope that justice will be served, ensuring accountability and integrity in public service.
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