Three Ministry of Social Development employees, including one retired individual, have been referred to criminal trial by the Public Prosecution for their alleged involvement in forgery of official documents, embezzlement of public funds, and causing harm to public finances. Additionally, a female official from the same ministry has been referred for disciplinary action due to negligence in supervision. The case stems from an audit on the “Productive Home (Khatwa)” program, where false statements were issued to program participants, allowing them to fraudulently benefit from insurance and service years retroactively from GOSI.
The National Audit Office uncovered the fraudulent scheme, leading to further investigations by the Anti-Corruption Crimes Department. The accused employees were found to be involved in issuing forged statements and facilitating the crime. The Public Prosecution took over the investigation, gathering evidence and conducting interrogations. The accused individuals were confronted with the evidence and subsequently referred to criminal trial. The first hearing is scheduled for May 28, 2024, before the High Criminal Court.
In addition to the criminal trial for the three employees, the female official from the Ministry of Social Development faces disciplinary action for her failure to monitor and supervise work in her sector, enabling the accused individuals to commit their crimes. Her negligence allowed ineligible individuals to receive retirement benefits from GOSI. The investigation exposed serious neglect in her job duties, leading to the referral for disciplinary action by the relevant administrative body.
The investigation by the Public Prosecution included reviewing statements, gathering witness testimonies, and examining the process of obtaining forged statements. The evidence against the accused employees was found to be substantial, leading to their referral to criminal trial. The prosecution is determined to hold those involved accountable for their actions and ensure justice is served. The case highlights the importance of transparency and accountability in government institutions to prevent corruption and protect public funds.
The criminal trial of the accused Ministry of Social Development employees will shed light on the extent of their involvement in the fraudulent scheme and the impact on public finances. The Public Prosecution’s efforts to uncover and prosecute such crimes demonstrate a commitment to upholding the law and holding individuals accountable for their actions. The case serves as a reminder of the consequences of corruption and the importance of ethical conduct in public service.
The upcoming trial will provide an opportunity for the accused individuals to defend themselves and for justice to be served. It is essential for the legal system to operate effectively to prevent such crimes from recurring and to restore public trust in government institutions. The outcome of the trial will send a strong message that corruption will not be tolerated, and those responsible will be held accountable. As the case progresses, the Public Prosecution will continue to investigate and prosecute cases of corruption to safeguard public funds and maintain the integrity of government operations.
