Church minister charged for alleged theft of more than $1.5 million granted bail

The 45-year-old church minister charged for the theft of over $1.5 million has been granted bail by the Suva Magistrates Court.

Joeli Sovaki who is from Nadi is charged with one count of theft.

It is alleged that between May 1 and June 30, 2018 Sovaki dishonestly appropriated $1,550,900 from the Bank of the South Pacific with the intention of permanently depriving the bank of this money.

He allegedly provided two foreign visa debit card details to the bank, enabling the transfer of seven fraudulent transactions into a law firm’s operating trust account.

The matter has been adjourned to the 23rd of December for plea.