The Milk Central, a state-owned enterprise, is on a path to recovery following a devastating financial fraud scandal that has caused an estimated loss of over SRD 350 million (approximately $350 million) over three years. The revelations came to light during a recent company meeting, where a new management team was appointed to steer the organization back to stability. The fraud case, uncovered six weeks ago, has led to the arrest of twelve individuals and a comprehensive restructuring of the company. The fraudulent activities were exposed through an internal investigation conducted by the Ministry of Agriculture, Livestock, and Fisheries (LVV), which subsequently filed a formal complaint. The Herman E. Gooding Police Bureau’s Criminal Investigation Unit is currently handling the case, with a recent visit to the company as part of the ongoing criminal probe. Among those detained are former director Dewkoemar Sitaram, Deputy Director of Administrative Services Dharma Hardayal, and Deputy Director of Operations Guillamo Marlan, all of whom have been dismissed for negligence, integrity violations, and harming the company’s interests. In response to the scandal, a new Board of Commissioners was established under the leadership of President-Commissioner Monché Atompai, who has successfully restored calm and stability within the organization. Employees have shown renewed motivation and readiness to work. Additionally, the company is making strides in reducing its debt burden, having negotiated payment arrangements with both national and international suppliers. To date, over 45% of local debts have been repaid. During the recent meeting, a new executive team was appointed, with Atompai taking on the role of General Director, Larissa Bardan as Director of Operations, and Ritshik Adelaar as Deputy Director of Administrative Services. The Board of Commissioners is now chaired by Anushka Sardjoe.
