The High Court in Suva has mandated the forfeiture of $52,312.24 from former military officer Ledua Biuvuli Matai’s bank account, declaring it tainted property following an investigation by the Fiji Independent Commission Against Corruption (FICAC). This ruling is part of a broader examination of alleged fraudulent transactions where Matai, alongside his wife Taucilagi Duri and daughter-in-law Denise Seniroqo, is implicated in 76 payments totaling $467,616.41 made by the Republic of Fiji Military Forces (RFMF) to a vendor, Ink Escape Supplies, which Duri and Seniroqo direct.
FICAC’s investigation revealed that funds paid to Ink Escape Supplies were subsequently withdrawn in cash and allegedly deposited into Matai’s personal account between November 2019 and June 2022. Justice Chaitanya Lakshman noted that the affidavit supporting the case by FICAC was uncontested by both Matai and Seniroqa, leading to the conclusion that the money constituted proceeds of crime, justifying the forfeiture to the state.
Justice Lakshman ordered that the forfeited funds be transferred to the Forfeited Assets Fund, emphasizing the ongoing commitment of FICAC to combat corruption and uphold ethical standards within public institutions. Furthermore, the case signifies the government’s serious stance on financial misconduct, aiming to restore trust in public service.
This development is part of a pattern of cases involving allegations of corruption in Fiji, highlighting the crucial need for transparency and accountability in government operations. As the legal proceedings continue, there remains optimism that justice will prevail, reinforcing the principles of integrity and ethical conduct in governance.
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