Tamkeen to fight fraud and safeguard public funds

TDT | Manama

Email: mail@newsofbahrain.com

The Labour Fund, Tamkeen, has affirmed its commitment to continuing its efforts to maintain robust oversight measures to prevent fraud and illegal exploitation of its support programs.

Operating under a comprehensive oversight plan and strict legal protocols, Tamkeen emphasised the importance of protecting public funds and ensuring that support is channeled to deserving beneficiaries effectively.

This announcement follows a recent conviction stemming from a report filed by Tamkeen with the General Department of Anti-Corruption and Economic and Electronic Security.

The report, subsequently referred to the Public Prosecution, exposed a case of fraudulent activity by an institution that misused Tamkeen’s support to embezzle public funds through fictitious employment schemes.

Inspections and field visits

Tamkeen’s oversight team, during routine inspections and field visits, uncovered the violation and referred it to the Violations Committee.

Investigations revealed that the institution had falsified documents and forged employment contracts for 30 workers, none of whom were actually employed.

Despite being registered with the Ministry of Industry and Commerce and having workers listed in the General Organization for Social Insurance systems, the establishment failed to employ any of the listed individuals.

Fraudulent documents

Further evidence showed that the institution submitted fraudulent documents claiming payment of wages to the workers to substantiate false claims.

Tamkeen lauded its constructive collaboration with relevant authorities, underscoring the importance of adhering to Bahrain’s laws and regulations.

It warned against malpractice, highlighting that violations could result in penalties for both institutions and individuals benefiting from its programs.