Victims of Solomon Islands’ Biggest Banking Scam Cry Foul Over Slow Investigation Process

The Central Bank of Solomon Islands (CBSI) and the Royal Solomon Islands Police Force (RSIPF) are facing criticism over their handling of a massive money laundering scheme allegedly operated by local Robert Henry Alufurai. Victims claim that despite reporting the fraud to authorities nearly two years ago, no progress has been made in bringing the perpetrator to justice.

The Scheme

Documents obtained by this paper reveal that Alufurai forged stamps and signatures of high-ranking officials, including Central Bank Governor Denton Rarawa and World Bank official Susan Moorhead, to lure unsuspecting locals into his scheme. He allegedly promised investors a share of $5 million each from a supposed US$36 million fund from the US Central Intelligence Agency (CIA).

Victim Stories

• Evelyn Kahia, who lost over $20,000 in the scam, has lodged formal complaints with the CBSI and RSIPF, but claims that her concerns have been ignored. “The whole issue has been brushed under the carpet by trusted authorities,” she said.
• Kemuel Gapu, who lost over $100,000 after depositing funds into Alufurai’s account at the Bank South Pacific (BSP) Kirakira branch, expressed frustration with the police investigation, questioning whether they were doing their job properly. “We’ve been waiting for almost two years to see some progress, but it seems like nothing is happening,” Gapu said.

CBSI Warning

The CBSI warned the public about Alufurai’s scheme in 2013, advising people not to fall prey to his fraudulent activities. However, victims claim that authorities have failed to take adequate action against him.

Investigation Controversy

• The investigation into Alufurai’s scheme has been mired in controversy, with some questioning the credibility of the police and CBSI in handling the matter.
• Victims are left wondering if authorities are truly committed to tackling financial fraud in Solomon Islands.

Call to Action

Kennedy Isou, a staff member at the CBSI Money Laundering Department, was unable to comment on the matter, citing his recent arrival at the office. The Director of National Criminal Investigation Unit (NCID) John Rove could not be reached for comment, but an NCID insider advised victims to lodge formal complaints with the Police Commissioner.

It remains to be seen whether authorities will take concrete action to bring Alufurai to justice and restore faith in the financial system of Solomon Islands.