FICAC received 39 complaints last month with 12 under investigation

The Fiji Independent Commission Against Corruption has confirmed that they received 39 complaints last month where 12 complaints were corruption-related in nature and were recommended for either preliminary investigation or a full investigation.

FICAC says 27 complaints were non-corruption-related in nature and were recommended for referral to the relevant authorities.

FICAC took two matters to court last month consisting of three individuals, in which two of the accused were male and one of the accused was female.

The charges laid last month include 3 counts of obtaining a financial advantage, 2 for falsification of documents, 2 for general dishonesty causing a loss and a count of abuse of office.

FICAC says 5 cases before the courts were disposed of last month due to insufficient evidence and unavailability of witnesses while two accused in a matter were acquitted by the Suva Magistrates Court.

They say while they make every effort to investigate cases within an allocated timeframe and proceed with matters before the courts, they are also ensuring that education and prevention training are conducted in all sectors of society.

The Commission says the Corruption Prevention Department conducted 30 Corruption Prevention Trainings for 2,792 individuals last month.

They say as we head into the festive season, FICAC will continue to ensure that transparency, accountability, and integrity remain at the forefront of public service and while many are preparing for festive celebrations, the fight against corruption continues - ensuring that public funds are used appropriately and that all citizens can trust in the systems meant to serve them.