The Office of the Ombudsman has formally enlisted the support of the Vanuatu Police Force (VPF) in an active investigation concerning the alleged submission of annual returns false filers. This collaboration is facilitated under the terms of the Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) signed between the Ombudsman Office and the VPF in 2021.

According to the statement made by the Ombudsman Bulu, the decision to engage police officers was made followed preliminary findings that warranted further investigation. Ombudsman Bulu extended sincere appreciation to the Office of the Commissioner of VPF for its prompt and constructive response, which facilitated the participation of police officers in the presence of the Acting Director of the Criminal Investigation Department (CID), Chief Inspector Tony Perry.

Pursuant to the arrangement, Ombudsman Bulu administered the Official Oath and conferred investigative authority upon Police Constable John Teawa, who will assist Corporal Cathy Thomas during her secondment to the Office of the Ombudsman. A third officer, Corporal Richard George, is also expected to join the team upon his return to the country.

This joint initiative is expected to enhance the gathering of evidence and support the efficient advancement of key investigative phases.