Probe into Peseta’s complaint incomplete

By Lanuola Tusani Tupufia 18 July 2016, 12:00AM

An investigation into a complaint lodged by the Associate Minister of the Ministry of Prime Minister, Peseta Vaifou Tevaga is still incomplete. 

In response to an email from the Samoa Observer, the Director of the National Prosecution Office, Precious Chang said police are working together with the Associate Minister and her office. 

“Our office has requested further matters to be done as well as further documents and information from the Associate Minister and his lawyer before any determinations can be made as to whether there is a crime or not,” said Ms. Chang. 

“At this stage it is still only an investigation based on a complaint brought to the police of an allegation.” The M.P. for Fa’asaleleaga is awaiting a hearing of a criminal matter where he faces one count of forgery and another charge of fraud in relation to a document he alleged to have forged. 

He denied the charges and the matter has been adjourned until September this year. 

However, on Tuesday, Peseta said there has been no progress on a complaint he had filed against Police about the handling of the matter which led to the charges against him.   “I did not withdraw my complaint,” he said. “I have already spent a substantial amount of money on my lawyer and I will not withdraw it. 

“I still haven’t heard from Police since then (when filed complaint). They keep saying to me they are investigating it but there hasn’t been any development to it.” According to Peseta, it appears that Police are not making any progress.  “It’s the same answer every time you ask,” he said.  “They are investigating…I haven’t heard from the Police and the investigation and complaint is to do with a lot of the mess dealing with land, money and other things.  “You will find out when it’s all done.” 

By Lanuola Tusani Tupufia 18 July 2016, 12:00AM
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