Fiji prisons boss sacked amid corruption charges

Fiji's prime minister has instigated the sacking of the head of the Corrections Service, Colonel Ifereimi Vasu, after he was charged with abuse of office.

Frank Bainimarama has recommended to the president that Colonel Vasu be dismissed and Kameli Ratuvakalevulevu be made the acting commissioner.

Colonel Vasu was in court for allegedly approving the purchase of goods worth more than US $60,000 from the Naboro Mini-Mart in which he is a company director.

A former inmate and now the director Corporate Services, Peniasi Kunatuba, is also charged with one count of abuse of office for allegedly facilitating and approving the purchase of goods.

A third accused, Dhansukh Lal Bhika, is also charged with abuse of office and aiding and abetting while he managed the shop.

Investigations in the case became known in April when anti-corruption officials raided the Corrections Service.

Pleas will be taken on February 10th.

     

Author: 
Radio New Zealand International