After allegations from a whistleblower inside PNG’s immigration authority that millions of dollars had potentially been misused, PNG’s deputy prime minister, also the minister for immigration, John Rosso, has ordered an audit into where the money has gone.
In a letter sent to Rosso, the whistleblower alleged widespread corruption within the program – particularly surrounding the hiring of cars.
He claimed private vehicles were “cross-hired” so as to disguise the beneficiaries of contracts, and relatives of senior officials were allowing their private vehicles to be hired through a front company, then claiming a personal benefit.
The whistleblower also alleged that contracts were improperly awarded, without an open tender process, and given to companies with no experience providing the services required.