NGCB boss charged with corruption, perjury

NATIONAL Gaming Control Board chief executive (CEO) Imelda Argon has been accused of fabricating evidence to occupy her current position, National Fraud and Anti-Corruption Directorate director Mathew Damaru says.
Argon, 47, of Lafu village, Kavieng district, New Ireland, has been charged with one count of corruption and one count of perjury.
Chief Supt Damaru said yesterday that prior to her becoming the CEO, she was director corporate affairs at NGCB and also held the role of secretary during the tenure of former CEO Simon Sanangke.
By virtue of the position she held, she was privy to the information on the dealings of NGCB’s community benefit funds, Damaru said.
It was alleged that between 2008 and 2011 she compiled a report of fraud against Sanangke which was then referred to police for investigation by the NGCB, Damaru said. Investigation was conducted by police which resulted in Sanangke being arrested and charged with fraud. He was committed to stand trial at the National Court where it was claimed by Argon that Sanangke’s statement before the court was not true. Her statement was allegedly fabricated to have Sanangke suspended so that she could vie for the top job of the organisation,” Damaru claimed.
Sanangke was suspended and Argon was appointed CEO.
Fraud charges against Sanangke were dismissed by the National Court for lack of evidence and on admission by Argon.
The directorate then conducted investigations and arrested Argon on a warrant.
After her interview was completed and arrest procedures completed, she was taken to the Boroko police cells and locked up. She is to appear in court later this week.