10 Aug 2018

Samoa official suspended over passport inquiry

2:36 pm on 10 August 2018

A senior officer of Samoa's Immigration division has been suspended during the inquiry into how a new passport was issued to businessman, Tui Va'ai Jr, who is facing criminal charges.

Samoa passport

Photo: RNZ Pacific /Tipi Autagavaia

Mr Va'ai has left the country but his other passports, including a New Zealand one, are being held by the Ministry of Justice as part of his bail conditions.

The chief executive of the Ministry of the Prime Minister and Cabinet, Agafili Shem Leo, said the senior officer was suspended on Monday because it's part of the process under the Public Service Commission legislation.

He said this would allow the investigation to be conducted without interference.

The police are also investigating the same matter.