After a criminal investigation into allegations of false passport production, one employee of the Samoa Immigration Department has been identified as a perpetrator.
Samoa Police conducted the internal investigation, probing through Immigration paperwork and documentation which identified the culprit.
Attorney General, Lemalu Herman Retzlaff has finalised the charges against the employee for breaching the Public Service Act.
It is anticipated that the suspect will be taken into Police custody at the end of the week.
According to the Ministry of Prime Minister and Cabinet's Immigration Department, further enquiries are now proposed to evaluate the current system for the issuing of new passports.
Commenting on the issue, Immigration Minister and Prime Minister, Tuilaepa Lupesoliai Dr. Sailele Malielegaoi stated;
“There will always be those who try to cheat the system, however the speed in which this matter has been dealt with is to be commended."
"The Ministry of the Prime Minister and Cabinet is working closely with the Ministry of Police and the Attorney General’s Office. The message should be clear that any such passport offending will result in quick action and an investigation."