************************************************************
A manager of a dispensary who was convicted of committing fraud against the Protection of Wages on Insolvency Fund (PWIF) was sentenced to six months' jail, suspended for 18 months, today (October 9) at the Kwun Tong Magistrates' Courts.
The dispensary ceased operation in June 2012, leaving wages and other termination payment to its employees unpaid. The manager subsequently applied for ex gratia payment from the PWIF. During verification of the PWIF application, the Labour Department (LD) discovered that he had already received part of the wages owed and might have been involved in defrauding the PWIF. The department then referred the case to the Police for investigation. Subsequently, the Police took out prosecution against the manager for committing fraud under the Theft Ordinance.
The LD spokesperson said, "We endeavour to combat PWIF abuses. During our verification of PWIF applications, if any employer, employee or other person is suspected to be involved in abuses or fraud involving the PWIF, or other suspected crimes or offences, we will refer the case to the Police or other appropriate law enforcement departments for action."
According to the Theft Ordinance, the maximum penalty for committing fraud is 14 years' imprisonment.
Ends/Thursday, October 9, 2014
Issued at HKT 17:45
NNNN
