Police Minister confirms banks investigations

The Minister of Police, Tialavea Tionisio Hunt, has confirmed two seperate investigations by the Police into allegations of misappropriation of funds by former employees of two commercial banks operating in Samoa. 

The Minister did not have the details about the former employees and whether the Police are likely to charge them soon.

But he could only confirm the investigations.

“The Police are investigating the separate cases of misappropriation of funds by the staff for the Bank of the South Pacific and also former staff of the National Bank of Samoa," Tialavea told the Samoa Observer during an interview. 

“I cannot confirm the amount, but I can confirm the investigation, given this is a matter of public interest." 

The National Bank of Samoa has declined to comment. 

But the Country Head of B.S.P., Taituuga Maryann Lameko-Vaai, in response to questions from the Samoa Observer, confirmed that "there is a police investigation underway for alleged misappropriation but I cannot divulge on the details pending that investigation." 

She added: "I can however provide absolute assurance that our customers’ funds with the bank are completely safe and secure and that the bank has zero tolerance for any proven misconduct and will be dealt with accordingly and with the highest priority."