Investigations continue into allegations of fraud by Suva lawyer

As investigations continue in relation to a Suva based lawyer and some prominent individuals defrauding an investor, it has come to light that the lawyer and other individuals were misleading certain people by using the names of the Prime Minister and the Office of the Prime Minister.

It has been confirmed that the lawyer and individuals were doing this without the knowledge of the Prime Minister or his office.

The Prime Minister's Office received allegations against the lawyer last week which arose after the wrongful detention of an investor who was subsequently cleared.

It is alleged that the lawyer with an accomplice defrauded the investor through a number of private deals, and used the name of the Prime Minister and Office of the Prime Minister to get money from the investor.

This came to light after a number of emails and texts were discovered.

It is also alleged that the lawyer misappropriated funds belonging to some of her clients and associates.

We have been informed that the amount of funds involved is huge.

The file for the investigation is currently being prepared.

It has been confirmed that the private firm where the lawyer worked is also investigating other alleged fraudulent activities.

The Suva lawyer was stopped from leaving the country last Friday.

Director Immigration Major Nemani Vuniwaqa told Fijivillage that the lawyer was stopped at the Nadi International Airport following a directive from the Prime Minister's Office.
 
Police spokesperson, Inspector Atunaisa Sokomuri said he is still unaware of any such investigation.

FICAC is yet to comment on the matter.

Meanwhile the Permanent Secretary at the Prime Minister's Office, Colonel Pio Tikoduadua said people should always check when certain claims are being made and the name of the Prime Minister is being used.