The Anti-Corruption Commission (ACC) has entered into a settlement agreement with Ecobank (SL) Limited to recover Le 34,825,176.87 that was misappropriated by a staff member of the bank, Abdul Salim Mansaray. The funds, originally intended for tax payments to the National Revenue Authority (NRA), were diverted for personal use by Mansaray, who fled the country but has since returned and been charged.
Under the terms of the agreement, Ecobank has already made an initial cash payment of Le 15,000,000 (new Leones) to the ACC. The remaining balance will be paid in nine monthly installments of Le 2,202,797.43, starting January 25, 2025, and concluding on September 25, 2025.
The settlement agreement resolves all claims and charges brought by the ACC against Ecobank (SL) Limited in relation to this matter. It explicitly states that the agreement does not constitute an admission of liability or wrongdoing by the bank. Instead, it recognizes the misconduct of the staff member involved and highlights Ecobank’s commitment to maintaining a strong relationship with the government and the people of Sierra Leone.
While the ACC will offer “no evidence” against Ecobank as part of the settlement, the other accused, including Abdul Salim Mansaray, will face trial. Mansaray’s actions resulted in significant revenue loss to the government, prompting swift intervention by the ACC to recover the stolen funds.
The ACC commended Ecobank for its cooperation in addressing the issue and ensuring the recovery of the misappropriated funds. The Commission reiterated its commitment to holding individuals and institutions accountable for corruption while encouraging proactive measures to prevent such occurrences in the future.
This settlement underscores the ACC’s dedication to safeguarding public resources and ensuring that revenue intended for the development of Sierra Leone is protected.
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