FSC probe report alleging $1m misuse likely to be released to Police

The report from the investigations of Fiji Sports Council (FSC) chief executive officer Gilbert Vakalalabure would be released to the Fiji Police Force.

This was confirmed to SUNsports yesterday by legal advisors Haniff Tuitoga law firm lawyer, Tomasi Tuitoga.

It is understood the more than 100- page report has outlined several findings including the alleged misuse of over $1million.

“The report is like to be released to the Police for further actions,” Tuitoga said.

The report was handed to the legal team following the conclusion of investigation by Pherrus Financial Services.

Asked if the FSC received a legal opinion on the reports done by Pherrus Financial Services on Vakalalabure, Tuitoga said: “Yes– but just on certain aspects of the report.”

In an earlier interview with the Fiji National Sports Commission CEO Peter Mazey said they would await the legal opinions.

“Currently CID are undertaking a separate investigation which was not instigated by the FSC but by other people,” Mazey added.

More than 16 issues were outlined in the Terms of Reference of the investigation which began on March 6; Vakalalabure and operations manager Litia Senibulu were also sent on leave pending investigation on the same day.

Issues in the investigation included the contra deals between Fiji Airways and FSC, which was allegedly abused by Vakalalabure when it covered the travel of the Minister for Youth and Sports Jese Saukuru’s spouse to a sevens tournament in New Zealand last year.

Saukuru was terminated from his ministerial role by the Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka following these allegations of abuse of office on March 7. He was reappointed on May 6.

The contra deals also covered travel expenses for Vakalalabure’s wife who travelled from New Zealand to attend a family function.

Other issues were the FSC’s Under- 20’s rugby 7s Hamilton trip, U20’s 7s team, the sponsored sports tournaments and the restructure of operations and staffing, which included pay rise.