23 Jan 2004

American Samoa governor deplores theft by government employees

6:31 am on 23 January 2004

The governor of American Samoa, Togiola Tulafono, says stealing in government is a serious problem that needs to be addressed.

He says dishonest government employees overcome by greed have stolen or violated laws and regulations.

Governor Togiola says he has asked police and the Attorney-General's Office to speed up their investigations so that such cases can be quickly prosecuted.

The governor says he will be sending legislation to the Fono later this month that would help speed up the investigation of white collar crimes especially in cases where those implicated have business ties.