A major development has occurred in an embezzlement case involving the Ministry of National Security. On July 24, 2025, KAVITA MAHARAJ, a former cashier at the Ministry, was arrested by the Fraud Squad. She had been absent from her duties since 2024 without formal suspension. Her responsibilities included collecting cash payments for services like work permits, which she was supposed to remit to the Ministry.
An internal audit from January to September 2023 uncovered significant discrepancies in financial records, leading to allegations that Ms. Maharaj misappropriated around $718,000. Following the audit, a formal report was filed with the Fraud Squad, prompting a thorough investigation led by Acting Corporal Saunders and supported by a dedicated team of officers.
Ms. Maharaj was charged with embezzlement on July 27, 2025, under the Larceny Act. She appeared before Master Indira Chinebass, who granted her bail set at $450,000. Conditions of her bail include mandatory reporting to a police station twice weekly and notifying the court of any address changes. The case has been scheduled for a status hearing on October 31, 2025.
The Trinidad and Tobago Police Service (TTPS), under the direction of Deputy Commissioner Suzette Martin, continues to enhance its efforts against white-collar crime. The TTPS has praised the diligent work of the officers involved in the investigation, emphasizing its commitment to maintaining the integrity of public institutions and combating financial crime.
