The Anti-Corruption Commission (ACC) has filed charges against Frederick Caulker, the former Head of Operations at the United Bank for Africa (UBA), for allegedly misappropriating over 1.9 million new Leones of public revenue.
In a statement released today, the ACC confirmed that Caulker is facing four counts of misappropriation of public funds, in violation of Section 36(1) of the Anti-Corruption Act, and one count of conspiracy to commit a corruption offence, under Section 128(1) of the same Act.
The charges relate to funds collected by the National Revenue Authority (NRA), specifically Pay As You Earn (PAYE) and Withholding Taxes paid by the Small Holder Commercialization Agri-Business Development Project (SCADeP).
According to the ACC, the total amount misappropriated by Caulker is One Million, Nine Hundred and Eighty Thousand, Two Hundred and Thirty-Three New Leones (NLe 1,980,233.4). The funds, which were meant for the NRA, were allegedly taken during the period between January 1st and 31st, 2024.
The Commission stated that Frederick Caulker, who is currently at large, is accused of taking One Million, Two Hundred and Ninety-One Thousand, Six Hundred and Twenty-Three New Leones, Fifty Cents (NLe 1,291,623.50) in withholding tax payments made by SCADeP to the NRA.
“The Anti-Corruption Commission remains steadfast in its mission to safeguard public funds and tackle corruption at all levels,” ACC stated. “We will continue to pursue those who abuse their positions for personal gain.”
If Caulker does not appear for trial, the case will proceed in his absence. The first hearing is scheduled for December 5th, 2024.
