In a press release dated September 25, 2023, the Sierra Leone Commercial Bank (SLCB) has issued a warning to all tertiary institutions regarding a growing issue of attempted registration fraud by students.
The SLCB Board and Management have observed an alarming increase in incidents involving students engaging in fraudulent activities during the registration process.
These fraudulent activities include fabricating academic credentials, altering financial records, and resorting to identity theft in order to secure enrollment and financial assistance. Such actions not only undermine the credibility of the institutions but also pose a significant financial risk.
“Registration is a crucial phase in the academic calendar of any tertiary institution. During this period, students officially enroll in their courses, make tuition payments, and submit necessary information for administrative purposes. Unfortunately, a minority of students attempt to manipulate this process for personal gain by distorting or forging information,” the SLCB press release stated.
To address these pressing issues and protect the interests of institutions, the SLCB’s Board and Management are committed to enhancing student registration verification processes to detect irregularities. They will also raise awareness about the consequences of fraudulent practices, collaborate with law enforcement to prosecute offenders, and encourage the reporting of suspicious activities with whistleblower protection.
The bank emphasizes that ensuring the integrity of the registration process requires a collaborative effort involving all stakeholders, including students, faculty, staff, and administrators. They pledge to remain vigilant and address any challenges that may jeopardize the integrity of the institutions.
Meanwhile, a police investigation is underway at Milton Margai Technical University (MMTU) following revelations by the University’s Finance Department that tuition fees paid by several students were not credited to their accounts.
These students claim to have made payments for their fees at the Sierra Leone Commercial Bank (SLCB) and received bank slips as receipts. However, it has been discovered that the funds they paid did not reach the university’s account.
Currently, the students are detained at the Criminal Investigations Department (CID), while a bank staff member responsible for processing their payments is reportedly evading authorities. Anthony Lagao, who allegedly acted as a liaison between the bank staff and students, is among those held at the CID.
Insiders at MMTU have confirmed that the Finance Department verified that the funds were not credited to the institution’s account.
A source within MMTU stated, “The bank issued receipts to the students, but the monies were never deposited into our account.” It has also been revealed that the police were promptly called in to investigate this fraudulent activity, which allegedly involves a senior bank staff member.
Despite efforts to dissuade the police from pressing charges to protect the bank’s reputation, CID sources indicate that the students will be charged today, Tuesday, September 26, 2023.
