Former Aiome school principal under investigation for misuse of funds

The former principal of Aiome Anglican Secondary School, Francis Kumo has been arrested and charged for misappropriating school funds and for Abuse of Office.

He was arrested last month following a formal complaint lodged in 2024 by teachers and members of the school board, who alleged that Mr. Kumo was misusing school funds and had involved in some fraudulent activities between 2018 and 2024.

Mr Kumo who is no longer the principal of Aiome, had reportedly continued to access the school’s operating account until this year.

In February this year, he allegedly made a K21,000 withdrawal without authorization from the school board and administration.

Investigators also noted a suspicious payment of K4,600 done to HF Trading Limited for fuel, which school officials were not aware off.

The financial mismanagement has severely impacted the school’s operation, leading to food shortage for students and lack of essential school supplies.

This has caused the school to suspend classes for the whole of 2024, depriving the students’ right to education.

Meanwhile, search warrants have been executed for the school’s financial records from 2018 to 2024 with the aim of uncovering further irregularities, including transactions with service providers for undelivered materials.

Madang Provincial Police Chief Acting Superintendent Robert Baim said the former principal was arrested at the Anglican Church premises in town on Sunday, the 2nd of March.

He is currently in police custody facing charges under the Criminal Code Act of Papua New Guinea.

PPC Baim also emphasised the importance of integrity in public service, urging officials to serve the community with respect.

Kumo, 49, hails from Monega Village in Sine LLG, Chuave District of Simbu Province, remains in custody as investigation continues.