Finance Secretary expresses disappointment over police conduct

Finance Secretary Samuel Penias has criticised the conduct of police fraud squad officers who raided his office today, calling the operation unprecedented and disrespectful to established protocols.

In a media statement, Mr Penias said while police are welcome to seek information during investigations, their approach must respect official processes and office decorum.

"The office of the Secretary for Finance is larger than any individual and must be treated with appropriate respect,” Mr Penias said. “Today’s operation was conducted in a clandestine manner, involving a surprise invasion aimed at obtaining information related to a fraud case involving an officer from another department currently before the courts.”

He expressed frustration at the presence of media personnel during the raid, saying cameras were set up in his conference room without his knowledge or consent.

“Such conduct is uncalled for and unprecedented,” he said.

Mr Penias maintained that the Department of Finance has always cooperated with law enforcement agencies on investigations into suspected fraud and misconduct. He said the department was preparing a report to assist police with a case involving a separate state agency and would have delivered it once completed.

The Secretary said he will lodge a formal complaint with the Police Commissioner and is seeking legal advice on the matter.

He also urged the media to refrain from further publicity of the incident until a full and accurate report is released.

"Today’s actions undermine the integrity of my office, the Department of Finance, and the entire bureaucratic process,” Mr Penias said. “Such actions have cast an unjust and damaging light on the work we do on behalf of the people of this nation.”