MOCA arrests four people in connection with fraud scheme targeting Sagicor Group

The Major Organised Crime and Anti-Corruption Agency (MOCA) has arrested four people as it conducts a series of operations across the Corporate Area in connection with an organised fraud scheme targeting Sagicor Group Jamaica Limited.

MOCA stated in a media release on Monday that the operations relate to investigations into allegations of forgery and fraudulent payments involving contractors and employees of the company.

MOCA is being supported by the Counter Terrorism and Organised Crime Branch (CTOC) and other units of the Jamaica Constabulary Force (JCF).

Director of Communications at MOCA, Major Basil Jarrett, said the scheme is alleged to have taken place between 2016 and April 2019, during which time contractors employed by Sagicor Group Jamaica Limited, acting in collusion with employees of the company, submitted multiple Interim Payment Certificates (IPCs) and invoices for work purportedly completed at properties owned or managed by Sagicor Property Services.

Payments were reportedly subsequently made based on the fraudulent documents.

MOCA said the scheme unravelled in April 2019 when an IPC and accompanying invoices were submitted by the owner of a construction company for payment.

During the processing of these documents, it was discovered that they had been forged, including the signatures of authorised signing officers.

MOCA said its investigation into the matter later revealed a deliberate and systematic attempt to defraud the company, resulting in this morning's arrests.

"This morning's operation emphasised the agency's zero-tolerance approach to corruption and fraud, and underscores MOCA's dedication to safeguarding the integrity of Jamaica's corporate sector and protecting businesses from internal and external threats. The arrests and anticipated charges are a step towards ensuring that entities like Sagicor can operate without the shadow of corruption and criminality,” Major Jarrett said.

The agency said it is working closely with Sagicor Group Jamaica Limited to uncover the full extent of the fraud.

MOCA is encouraging businesses and individuals to report suspicious activities and fraudulent behaviour to the authorities.

It is also reminding members of the public that fraud is a serious offence that carries significant penalties under Jamaican law.

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