Government
Two Health ACEOs suspended over alleged theft of oxygen gas
By Lagi Keresoma/
Apia, SAMOA – 31 August 2026: Three senior health employees have been suspended pending the outcome of a Public Service Commission investigation.
The suspended employees include two Assistant Chief Executive Officers (ACEO) and a senior official.
The Minister of Health, Va’aaoao Salu Alofipo said the suspension is based on allegations that the employees had sold health oxygen gas cylinders to the Fire & Emergency Services Authority (FESA).
The Minister also said that according to the information he received, this has been a longstanding matter without the knowledge of the Director General and management of the Ministry of Health.
Asked if such actions had contributed to the constant shortage of oxygen at the hospital, the Minister said “yes.”
Two weeks ago, the media again reported oxygen shortage that disrupted services at the national hospital. The shortage prompted the Police Nafanua patrol boat on an urgent trip to obtain needed oxygen cylinders from American Samoa.
The Public Service Commission investigation continues.
Feiloaiga a le Afioga ile Palemia ma le Vasega o Tusitala & Au Faasalalau – 2 Aperila
Lavasiga o le Aso: 06 Faamasinoga, HRPP SUPA, Vaalele Fou, Ola Faalagolago – 22 Iuni 2025
