Pawan Deo, a former accountant for the Fiji Rugby Union (FRU), and his wife Subhashni Mudaliar have pleaded not guilty to several serious charges in the Suva Magistrate’s Court. The couple is accused of conspiracy to defraud, obtaining a financial gain, and unlawfully securing a financial advantage.
The allegations indicate that while running Sports Supplies Limited (SSL), they conspired to improperly acquire a total of $53,788.75 from the FRU between February 1 and July 31, 2022. Moreover, the couple is also accused of facilitating fraudulent payments that led to an unauthorized gain of $7,291.83 for SSL, despite being aware that the company was ineligible to receive those funds within the period from February 1 to May 11, 2022.
During the court session, prosecution lawyer Ravinesh Lal confirmed that all necessary disclosures had been provided to the defendants on November 26 of the previous year. Their legal representatives have expressed intentions to seek a reconsideration of the charges from the Fiji Independent Commission Against Corruption (FICAC).
The couple’s bail was extended following their hearing, with the case adjourned until February 28 for further proceedings. This case underscores significant concerns regarding financial integrity and governance practices in organizations that manage public funds, particularly in the sporting sector.
As the legal proceedings advance, it highlights the importance of maintaining transparency and ethical standards in sports management. The outcome could potentially encourage stricter regulations, contributing to a healthier environment in the sports community that fosters public trust and accountability.
Summary: Pawan Deo and Subhashni Mudaliar face charges of fraud related to their management of Sports Supplies Limited and the Fiji Rugby Union. Their next court appearance is scheduled for February 28, and the case reflects larger issues of accountability in sports governance.
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