Former dairy executive charged by SFO over $250K in kickbacks from Indonesian company

Simon Stewart appeared in the Manukau District Court and faces one representative charge under section 4 of the Secret Commissions Act 1910.

The SFO alleges Mr Stewart provided information, including sensitive price information, and assistance to OCD Indonesian based customer, PT. Anta Tirta Kirana (Anta Tirta) and in return he received undisclosed payments.

It is alleged that between 1 April 2019 and 10 October 2023, Mr Stewart received 27 payments from Anta Tirta totaling $276,668.92 as payment for the information and assistance he provided. The individual payments ranged in amounts from $6,980.00 to $22,767.08.

Primarily owned by the Talley’s Food Group, OCD is New Zealand’s second largest milk processor and the world’s second largest exporter of whole milk powder.

SFO Director Karen Chang says, “Corporate and commercial fraud that undermines New Zealand’s significant trade-related industries poses a serious risk to our economic growth and productivity. Tackling this type of offending is a strategic area of focus for the SFO, and we are committed to protecting the integrity of New Zealand’s markets and supporting our reputation as a trusted place to do business.”

The SFO would like to thank OCD for their cooperation and assistance and for referring the case following their own internal investigation.

The next appearance on this matter is scheduled for 7 October at the Manukau District Court.

About the Serious Fraud Office

The SFO is responsible for investigating and prosecuting serious or complex fraud, including bribery and corruption in New Zealand. With a focus on maintaining integrity and trust in the financial system, the SFO has developed strategic areas of focus to ensure it has the greatest impact with the cases it takes on. SFO Strategic Areas of Focus(external link)