A MAN who evaded police on several occasions after he fraudulently obtained money from several foreigners has been arrested at his home village last weekend.
Michael Bosa from Luluga village on Central Guadalcanal is now in police custody.
Police alleged Bosa was heavily involved in the local gold buying business where several foreigners were involved.
He reported took large sums of money from foreign gold dealers on the promise that he will buy from villagers and bring them the gold later.
But he took the money and never returned.
Police say Bosa was also in the possession of a gold buying licence, which he used to convince those he allegedly defrauded.
He was reported to have obtained up to $350,000 through his dealings with the foreign gold buyers.
Police have been looking for him after his activities were reported, but he reportedly hid in his village.
But on Saturday evening he was caught on the mountains near Luluga village.
A police spokesman said they’ve been looking for Bosa since last year.
“The police officer involved in Bosa’s arrest must be credited for his fine effort. You see there are only a few police officers who have been working very hard and honest about their job.
“The arrest of Bosa reflects the commitment of this officer involved and we really admire his work,” a foreign businessman said.
The businessman said there are a few officers who are not corrupt to accept bribes and do their work faithfully and honestly.
“I know that within the police, too much corruption has destroyed the institution making it very difficult for foreign nationals like us to do business because we have to spend so much money we could have invested in growing our business but instead spent it on providing security and meet other expenses like following up on incidences like the case of Bosa to ensure he is brought to e justice,” the businessman added.
He said when they try to do business to help the people of this country and one turned and do otherwise, it sends a negative picture to other genuine foreign investors and businessmen who would like to come and do business here.
The businessman praised the officer responsible for Bosa’s arrest saying although such officer is only earning $600 a week, he has given them trust and confidence for a job well-done.
“Under such salary level, one is susceptible to corruption because how would an officer survive with $600 a week?
“But to this officer, despite his pay, the time and effort he puts into this case and made the arrest deserve him a much better pay.
“I know that only a few police officers are doing their work faithfully although they might at times accept some kind of bribe but 90 percent of their time, they have done great to serve this nation and must be recognised in some ways,” the foreigner said.
Police called on those who fall victim to Bosa to come forward.
By DANIEL NAMOSUAIA
