A 52-year-old financial officer, Larrisa Aloma Vern, of a primary school in Mpumalanga, has been remanded in custody after appearing before the Delmas Magistrate’s Court.
Vern was arrested by the Directorate for Priority Crime Investigation, commonly known as the Hawks, on charges of defrauding the school of over R2.6 million.
According to Captain Dineo Lucy Sekgotodi, the spokesperson for the Mpumalanga provincial Hawks, Vern’s case has been postponed to next week for a formal bail application.
Vern was appointed as a financial officer at Delmas Primary School in December 2021. Her responsibilities included making payments for services rendered, paying salaries to teachers, managing the school budget, and handling cash transactions.
The investigation into Vern’s alleged fraudulent activities began when the school received information suggesting that she had paid herself two unauthorised bonuses.
Further investigation revealed that Vern had made multiple payments totaling R2,665,007 from the school’s bank account to four different Capitec bank accounts under her name. She used the names of account holders known to the school to transfer funds to her personal accounts.
The total amount defrauded from the school was R2,665,007. A warrant of arrest was authorised and executed, leading to Vern’s detention pending her appearance in court.
The case highlights the importance of financial oversight and internal controls within educational institutions. It serves as a reminder of the need for transparency and accountability in handling public funds.
The Directorate for Priority Crime Investigation’s swift action in apprehending the suspect demonstrates their commitment to combating financial crimes.
As the legal proceedings continue, it is crucial that the justice system ensures a fair and impartial trial to determine the extent of Vern’s alleged wrongdoing and hold her accountable for any illegal activities committed.
Overall, this incident serves as a reminder of the importance of vigilance and robust financial management systems to safeguard against fraudulent activities within educational institutions.
