News

Former MOH employee charged by FICAC

Posted by Media Team 15 November 2024

A former employee of the Ministry of Health & Medical Services, has been charged by the Fiji Independent Commission Against Corruption (FICAC).

Samuela Tuibeqa, 50, appeared in the Suva Magistrates Court today, facing a charge of Obtaining a Financial Advantage.

It is alleged that between 1 August 2019 and 31 December 2019, while employed at the Ministry, Tuibeqa claimed Time and a Half, Double Time, Meal Claims, and Country Allowances that he was not entitled to, totaling $7,355.86.

FICAC Junior State Counsel, Ms. Sameea Nisa, informed Resident Magistrate Mr Yogesh Prasad that the first phase disclosures had been served to the accused.

Tuibeqa’s two sureties were presented in court. The prosecution did not object to bail but requested strict conditions.

Resident Magistrate Mr Prasad issued a Stop Departure Order for Tuibeqa, effective immediately.

The accused was ordered not to reoffend or interfere with prosecution witnesses, must continue to reside at his current residential address, and notify the Court of any change in address and he is to report to FICAC Headquarters in Suva once a month.

Mr Tuibeqa was also ordered to seek Legal Aid assistance and be represented by counsel at his next appearance.

The case has been adjourned to December 13, 2024, for a plea.