ACC Chief Warns NRA, Banks Over Weak Controls in 34 Billion Leones Fraud Scandal

Francis Ben Kaifala, Commissioner of Sierra Leone’s Anti-Corruption Commission (ACC), has issued a stern warning to the National Revenue Authority (NRA) and commercial banks, threatening legal action over inadequate internal control systems that he says enable corruption.

The announcement, made during a press conference on November 26, 2024, at the ACC’s Integrity House headquarters, follows a high-profile embezzlement case involving Salim Mansaray, an EcoBank staff member. Mansaray allegedly stole 34 billion old Leones in taxpayer revenue payments made via cheques to the NRA.

Kaifala criticized the NRA for failing to detect the fraudulent scheme, arguing that robust internal controls could have thwarted the crime. “This was a massive breach of trust and accountability. The institutions entrusted with managing public funds must prioritize stronger monitoring mechanisms,” he said.

The Commissioner emphasized that the ACC remains resolute in holding all parties accountable for mismanagement and corruption. “If the NRA and commercial banks do not address these weaknesses immediately, the ACC will have no choice but to take legal action against them,” Kaifala warned.

The incident has sparked widespread concerns over the integrity of Sierra Leone’s financial systems, particularly in handling public funds. The ACC has vowed to pursue those responsible for undermining public trust and ensure reforms to prevent future incidents.