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by pltm
(PLTM) - The discovery that Robert Swain had been engaged in accepting a bribe was allegedly triggered by the former official in the then Ministry of Communication and Works being discontent with receiving a lower cut than agreed upon.
Swain appeared before the Magistrate's Court on Tuesday, April 9, on a charge of bribery by a public official. He was granted $70,000 bail with one surety.
In court, it was explained that in December last year, Swain, who was a Senior Administrative Officer in the Ministry, came to an agreement with a contractor to have him awarded a contract for $15,000 more than the works would cost, despite the contractor not meeting the qualifications. There was allegedly an agreement for Swain to receive a little less than half of the profit.
However, after allegedly receiving $5,400 and spending the money, Swain reportedly became dissatisfied with his cut and threatened the contractor and demanded more money.
Following that incident, the contractor approached the police with the complaints, which led to an investigation.
Swain’s passport has been lodged with the police and he is scheduled to return to court on May 9.
Previous Article Published April 9: Robert Swain Heading To Court On Bribery Charge
Senior Administrative Officer at the Ministry of Transportation, Works and Utilities, Mr. Robert Swain has been charged in relation to bribery allegations.
This follows his arrest on Monday, April 8, and the launch of an investigation.
He was arrested on suspicion of bribery by a public official.
Swain Sr., 56, is being kept in police custody pending his appearance before the Magistrate’s Court tomorrow, April 10.
In a release to the media, the police stated, “Swain’s arrest is as a result of an investigation into a contract issued by the Ministry of Transportation, Works and Utilities, formerly the Ministry of Communications and Works.”
Previous Article Published April 8: Sr. Gov’t Officer Arrested On Suspicion Of Bribery
A senior Government officer has been arrested in relation to suspected bribery, and an investigation has been launched.
This was revealed by Police Communications Officer, Ms. Diane Drayton via a statement today, April 8.
According to the police release, “The Royal Virgin Islands Police Force can confirm that a senior Government officer in the Ministry of Transportation, Works and Utilities (formerly the Ministry of Communications and Works) has been arrested on suspicion of bribery by a public official. Investigations are ongoing.”
BVI Platinum News will provide more details as the story unfolds.
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