Payroll Fraud: Two National Service managers interdicted in Birim North

The National Service Authority (NSA) has suspended two senior officers. This action follows a payroll fraud scheme in the Birim North District. The officers involved are the District Manager and the Management Information Systems (MIS) Manager.

Both officers admitted their roles in processing fake claims. They validated monthly allowances for many ineligible individuals. This admission came after a meeting with NSA officials and a whistleblower.

Preliminary investigations showed that 29 individuals were falsely validated for 2024/2025. Additionally, 49 individuals were misrepresented for the 2023/2024 period. These people were either on paid study leave or employed full-time elsewhere.

The NSA stated this conduct violates the Public Services Commission Act, 1994 (Act 482). It also constitutes unlawful enrichment and misappropriation of public funds. The Authority will address these issues with strict legal measures.

This problem is part of a larger issue within the NSA. There are indications that thousands may be fraudulently receiving allowances while working full-time jobs in various sectors.

To combat this, the NSA is enhancing verification processes. They will cross-check information with the Controller and Accountant-General's Department (CAGD). This aims to detect dual remuneration and identity falsification cases.

All involved individuals must stop submitting allowance forms immediately. They must report to NSA regional offices by May 23, 2025, for rectification. Failure to comply will result in public disclosure and possible prosecution.

Felix Gyamfi, Director-General of the NSA, issued a warning to offenders. He emphasized that enhanced systems will expose all wrongdoers, regardless of when offenses occurred.

The NSA remains committed to transparency and accountability in its National Service programme.