A 50-year-old man, Samuela Tuibeqa, has been charged by the Fiji Independent Commission Against Corruption (FICAC) with a single count of obtaining a financial advantage. Tuibeqa, a former employee of the Ministry of Health and Medical Services, appeared in the Suva Magistrates Court on Friday.
The charges allege that between August 1, 2019, and December 31, 2019, Tuibeqa fraudulently claimed various allowances, including extra pay for overtime, meal claims, and country allowances, amounting to $7,355.86, which he was not entitled to receive.
During the court proceedings, FICAC Junior State Counsel Sameea Nisa informed Resident Magistrate Yogesh Prasad that the initial phase of disclosures had been provided to Tuibeqa. His two sureties were also presented. While the prosecution did not oppose bail, they requested that strict conditions be imposed.
The Resident Magistrate issued an immediate Stop Departure Order for Tuibeqa, alongside several other restrictions. He is required to refrain from re-offending, avoid any contact with prosecution witnesses, continue residing at his current address, notify the court of any address changes, and report monthly to FICAC Headquarters in Suva.
Furthermore, Tuibeqa was instructed to seek Legal Aid assistance and ensure representation at his next court appearance. The case has been adjourned until December 13 for further mention.
This case underlines the ongoing efforts of FICAC to address corruption within governmental institutions, reinforcing accountability and transparency in public service. Though the allegations are serious, the legal process will allow for a fair examination of the evidence before a conclusion is reached.
In summary, a former health ministry employee is facing allegations of fraudulently claiming financial advantages, and the case will continue to be monitored in the coming months as it progresses through the judicial system.
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