South Wales Police have charged three individuals in relation to a substantial fraud investigation involving Cardiff Sixth Form College, a prestigious institution known for its academic excellence. The charges stem from alleged financial irregularities that occurred over a four-year period, specifically between 2012 and 2016.
Yasmin Anjum Sarwar, 43, from Cyncoed, and her husband, Nadeem Sarwar, 48, from Pentwyn, both located in Cardiff, face multiple counts of theft and fraud for offences amounting to approximately £5 million. Additionally, Ragu Sivapalan, 39, from Penylan, has been charged with false accounting, also relating to the same timeframe of 2013 to 2016.
The investigation by South Wales Police was initiated in 2017 after financial discrepancies were detected at the college. The case has garnered attention due to the significant sums involved and the college’s notable reputation, previously recognised in a BBC documentary titled “Britain’s Brainiest School.”
All three defendants are scheduled to appear at Cardiff Magistrates’ Court on Tuesday, April 8. Cardiff Sixth Form College, which serves students aged 16 to 18 and has consistently ranked among the top independent schools in the UK based on A-level results, has undergone a change in ownership since the incidents came to light. The college is now managed by the Cardiff Educational Endowment Trust, a charity that oversees its operations.
A spokesperson from South Wales Police highlighted that the investigation included vital evidence from the Charity Commission for England & Wales, contributing to the charges filed against the individuals implicated in the alleged fraud and theft activities. The repercussions of these charges may extend beyond legal consequences, potentially impacting the institution's reputation and its relationship with stakeholders.
Source: Noah Wire Services