The Opposition People’s National Party is calling for the Government to take a more deliberate approach and show more urgency in investigating the allegations of fraud at Stocks and Securities Limited (SSL).

The Opposition is concerned that not enough is being done to prevent further compromise of the case and is also concerned that the Major Organised Crime and Anti-Corruption Agency (MOCA) has not been deployed as the chief local investigating agency.

Opposition Spokesperson on Finance and Planning Julian Robinson said: “In light of the attempt by principals of SSL to voluntarily wind up the company, the Opposition is concerned that not enough is being done to prevent further compromise of the case and to protect the investing public. The current arrangements are problematic, as there has developed a pattern of leaked information, in what appears to be a manipulative attempt to shape the narrative of the case.” 

Robinson questions whether the interim manager has been provided with adequate resources to manage the crisis. 

“As things now stand, it is highly inappropriate for the interim manager to have to rely on the current staff of SSL, some of whom may be themselves implicated or otherwise compromised by conflicts of interest, as support in this complex fraud investigation and to bring order to the operations of the business,” he continued.

He said MOCA, being an independent law enforcement entity focused on eliminating major crimes of corruption, is best placed to lead this investigation. 

Added Robinson: “We have a duty to protect the interests of the hard-working Jamaicans who entrusted their money to an institution that clearly enjoyed the confidence of the Government. We also have a duty to preserve the integrity of our financial sector and Jamaica’s international reputation. The world is looking on, and the people of Jamaica need swift action and full accountability.”