Senior CJIA official sent on administrative leave

Sexual misconduct allegations

…complainant also removed from post

The senior official attached to the Cheddi Jagan International Airport (CJIA) being investigated for sexual misconduct, an allegation made against him by another employee of the airport, was on Tuesday sent on administrative leave pending the outcome of a new investigation into the complaint.
In a statement, the airport also revealed that the victim has also been removed from her post.
The investigation into the alleged sexual misconduct was launched following a report made by the victim to the Timehri Police Station. The incident occurred about a year ago.
In a detailed report given to the police, the woman alleged that in July of last year, the senior official held and kissed her without her permission during a visit to his office for a work-related matter.
She told Police that while in the office, the man first invited her out, claiming that it was his birthday. While doing so, the official reportedly left his desk, came over to the victim, grabbed and kissed her.
Shocked at this action, the woman revealed that she attempted to leave the office but was held and kissed a second time. The woman explained that she ran out of the office and threw up.
The following day, the matter was reported to a senior official at the airport and a representative of the Human Resources Department.
After being assured by the official that the matter would be investigated, the victim left. However, it was only last week that the woman received word via WhatsApp regarding the investigation, telling her that the matter had been dealt with but noted that no evidence was offered for further action.
When further questions posed to the airport heads went unanswered, the woman visited the police station where she reported the matter.
The police are presently investigating and are said to be preparing a case file to be sent for legal advice.
However, CJIA is now assuring employees that steps are being taken to strengthen the existing protocols.