Cashier investigated for alleged misuse

By Joyetter Feagaimaali’i-Luamanu 11 September 2018, 12:00AM

A cashier currently working with the Ministry of Finance is under investigation for allegedly misusing public funds to the tune of $2,400. 

The actions of the officer were revealed in a financial irregularity report that was done in March this year and detailed how the officer allegedly diverted the funding to personal use. 

The report, which was signed by Rosita Maua’i-Matalavea who is the A.C.E.O. of the accounting and reporting division in the Ministry of Finance, has raised questions about the receipts and alleged that the misappropriation occurred during the period December 1, 2017 to March 22, 2018. 

“The cashier in question is however no longer collecting money but upon further investigation and trace of such receipt, we note that such receipt was from an old sequence and result to further questioning of the cashier," the irregularity report reads. 

“The cashier admitted that he used old receipt books to issue receipts to clients in paying pay slips and discharge fees for dishonor cheques and used the money for personal use. 

"Given the above and what we have found on Friday, the estimated amount according to the period stated or more than $2400.”

The A.C.E.O. then made recommendations at the time for an urgent investigation by the internal audit investigation division. 

“Reconciliation and receipting staff under the supervision of (named) will take over the cashier. This will include reshuffling of staff to cover this high secured function while the cashier in questions will be responsible to non-cash handling responsibilities.” 

Repeated emails to the M.O.F Chief Executive Officer, Lavea Tupa'imatuna Iulai Lavea, for a comment were not answered as of press time.

By Joyetter Feagaimaali’i-Luamanu 11 September 2018, 12:00AM

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