British officials to interrogate Jamaican MP

Jamaica's Minister of State responsible for Transport and Posts, Hon. Joseph Hibbert

According to Caribbean360, Hibbert's residence was searched last Wednesday (Dec. 10) in relation to an international fraud investigation launched by the SFO. According to the report, the search was in connection with a leading investigation into bribery charges against UK-based bridge-building company Mabey and Johnson, which was accused of “bribing public officials in a number of countries, including Jamaica”.

During Hibbert’s service as Chief Technical Director in the Public Works Department in 2003, the Jamaican government “secured a loan agreement for more than £22 million (US$32.8 million) for Mabey and Johnson to supply and construct 45 bridges across the island”.

The report also states that Prime Minister Bruce Golding indicated to Parliament that the Hibbert had denied any unlawful activity. Also, a formal statement emanating from the Jamaican Labour Party stated that “after having discussions with Mr Hibbert, [we] the party believe he had committed no impropriety”.

The MP was to be immediately questioned by the SFO personnel, but his attorneys requested more time to review the presented documents.

The Serious Fraud Office is a government office and is part of the UK criminal justice system. Its aim is to protect society by pursuing and prosecuting those who commit serious and complex fraud. ~~Adz:Right~~