CMU: Employee suspended after 'suspected breach’ detected; matter reported to FID

The Caribbean Maritime University (CMU) says an employee has been suspended following the detection of a "suspected internal breach" at the institution.

The matter has been referred to the Financial Investigations Division, the government body that investigates financial crimes, according to a statement from the university issued on Friday.

No details were provided on the specific nature of the breach.

"The leadership of the CMU, through its own vigilance, has identified a suspected internal breach involving an employee," the statement said. "This discovery was based on strengthened internal monitoring processes. In the last three years, the CMU has implemented robust internal controls designed to quickly alert leadership to any action misaligned with the university’s policies and the laws of Jamaica."

The university said "no conclusive findings have been made" and that "any action taken will be guided by the results of the investigation and in accordance with applicable laws and policies".

CMU President Professor Andrew Spencer underscored the institution’s commitment to integrity and accountability.

"The university remains fully operational and continues to serve its stakeholders without interruption," Spencer said. "It is committed to integrity, transparency, and accountability, and to addressing all matters in accordance with established processes."

CMU is a government-owned tertiary institution specialising in maritime studies, transportation, logistics, and related disciplines.

The university has pursued major reforms following a financial scandal in 2019. Former CMU president Fritz Pinnock is among five people currently on trial for corruption.

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