Afrana Nisha, a former secretary for the Independent Legal Services Commission (ILSC), has been sentenced to five years in prison for engaging in cheque fraud amounting to over $10,000. The sentencing took place at the Suva Magistrates Court earlier today.
Nisha faced multiple charges, including seven counts of document falsification and two counts of obtaining a financial advantage. The court revealed that between July 2012 and November 2014, she manipulated documents by forging the signatures of former Solicitor General Sharvada Sharma and lawyer Ana Tuiketei on cheques. In a bid to secure financial gain, she also listed herself and ILSC Commissioner Paul Madigan as payees.
In one notable incident, Nisha forged a cheque for $3,450, made out to Tuiketei, and directed an ILSC receptionist to cash it, instructing her to hand over the proceeds. The presiding magistrate emphasized the severity of the breach of trust, highlighting how Nisha’s actions led to her dishonestly obtaining more than $10,000 from the ILSC over the two-year period.
The court underscored the importance of accountability for public officers responsible for managing funds. Nisha is set to serve five years in prison, with a non-parole period of four years. This case serves as a reminder of the need for integrity in public service and the potential long-term consequences of financial misconduct.