The Financial Intelligence Unit in its 2009 Annual Report revealed that it received 750 suspicious transaction reports over the past 12 months.

In a statement Director Razim Buksh yesterday released its 2009 Annual report following the tabling of the report to cabinet on the 16th of August, showing that as well as receiving 750 suspicious transaction reports the FIU disseminated 190 intelligence reports to law enforcement agencies for further investigation of possible money laundering and other serious offences.

Buksh said the FIU also continued to identify a number of emerging financial crimes in Fiji over the past 12 months, adding that they also identified over 140 cases of possible tax evasion and tax fraud.

Buksh added the FIU in partnership with key government agencies and the private sector continued to implement anti-money laundering initiatives during 2009, which also enabled Fiji to strengthen compliance with international requirements.

On the international front, Buksh said the FIU's admission as a member of the Egmont Group of international FIUs in 2009 was a milestone achievement for Fiji, as it strengthens Fiji's networking and information exchange mechanism with other jurisdictions.


Story by: Ana Naisoro