$38,000 ULTRASOUND SCANDAL: ACC INDICTS NMSA VOLUNTEER OVER ALLEGED MISAPPROPRIATION:

By David K.Fengai

The Anti-Corruption Commission (ACC) has indicted Francis Lavai, a volunteer attached to the National Medical Supplies Agency (NMSA) warehouse at Fawaz Compound, Ferry Junction, Freetown, over the alleged misappropriation of public property valued at US$38,000.

According to the ACC, Lavai faces one count of Misappropriation of Public Property, contrary to Section 36(1) of the Anti-Corruption Act No. 12 of 2008, as amended by the Anti-Corruption (Amendment) Act, 2019.

The Commission alleges that between December 1, 2025, and January 31, 2026, at the Bo District Medical Stores in Bo District, Southern Province, Lavai allegedly misappropriated a portable black-and-white convex ultrasound machine valued at US$38,000.

The medical equipment is reportedly the property of the Ministry of Health and forms part of public resources intended to support healthcare delivery.

The indictment has placed renewed attention on the management, protection and accountability of government medical supplies and equipment. The ACC’s action also underscores its continued efforts to investigate allegations involving public assets and hold individuals accountable where evidence supports prosecution.

As the matter proceeds, the allegations against Lavai remain allegations until determined by a competent court. The case is expected to draw public interest given the significant value of the equipment and its importance to Sierra Leone’s healthcare system.