The Fiji Police Force has confirmed it is investigating an official complaint alleging misuse of funds by former Minister for Youth and Sports Jese Saukuru, in a probe that also names Fiji Sports Council chief executive Gilbert Vakalalabure.
Police said the complaint, now the subject of an active inquiry, relates to alleged financial irregularities and that investigators will work with the Office of the Auditor‑General as part of the fact‑finding process. The involvement of the Auditor‑General indicates the inquiry will include a review of financial records and accounts, police added, but no charges have been laid at this stage.
Both Saukuru, who served as Minister for Youth and Sports, and Vakalalabure, the executive head of the Fiji Sports Council, have been identified in the complaint, according to the police statement. Authorities gave no further detail on the nature or time frame of the alleged misuse, the identity of the complainant or when the complaint was filed, saying only that investigations are under way.
The development marks a notable escalation in scrutiny of sporting governance after several recent probes touching Fiji’s sports sector and public institutions. In recent months police have pursued complaints connected to football administration and online harassment, and government agencies have faced increased calls for financial transparency. Earlier this year a Cabinet minister stepped down after corruption charges were brought against him, underscoring heightened oversight of public funds and officials.
Police did not say whether the matter would be referred to specialist agencies such as the Fiji Independent Commission Against Corruption, noting currently that the Office of the Auditor‑General will be a key partner in tracing and verifying any alleged misapplication of funds. Investigators typically follow evidence gathered during such audits before determining if criminal charges are warranted.
Representatives for Saukuru and Vakalalabure could not immediately be reached for comment. The Fiji Sports Council is a statutory body responsible for management of national sporting facilities and development programs; any investigation touching its leadership is likely to prompt scrutiny from sporting bodies and funders alike.
The police said they will provide updates as the inquiry progresses. The lack of immediate detail leaves open questions about the scale and timing of the alleged misuse; however, the formal complaint and coordinated audit review signal a comprehensive inquiry that could take time to complete.
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