- May 24, 2018
- Posted by: fnpf_editor2
- Categories: Media Articles, News & Media
The Fiji National Provident Fund has warned members against defrauding the Fund and will ensure that those engaged in such acts face criminal charges.
While the Fund has often cautioned members against such activities, it continues to encounter attempts at fraud, with a notable increase in claims of unauthorized withdrawals and falsified documents provided for early withdrawal assistance.
Chief Executive Officer Jaoji Koroi said members have been charged and imprisoned in the past and the Fund will not hesitate to take those engaging in fraudulent activities, to task.
“The Fund’s Audit and Legal teams have been alerted to incidents of fraud and have conducted the necessary investigations.”
“The submission of false termination or resignation letters and forging of employers signatures are serious offences which carries an imprisonment term under the law,” said Mr. Koroi.
“In 2016, four members who provided falsified termination letters with their Unemployment Assistance applications, were investigated, prosecuted and incarcerated,” said Mr. Koroi.
“These members served prison terms of 18 to 20 months as a result of their actions.” Investigations are ongoing for similar cases, while others are before the courts.
“We reiterate that there are serious consequences for such activities.”
He adds that fraud is a global risk and while the advancement of technology enables members to have greater access to their accounts, the Fund is also mindful of illegal online activities and has taken stringent measures to curb the commission of these offences.
To date, the Fund has encountered various fraudulent offences which also includes abuse of housing assistance, impersonation and nomination fraud.
Mr Koroi said the Fund has a zero tolerance for fraudulent activities and penalties for fraud related offences vary according to the severity of the offence.
“Members funds are entrusted to us and as custodians, we have a responsibility to ensure that their funds are safe and accumulates for the purpose of retirement.”
For more information email mediaqueries@fnpf.com.fj.