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The Digest:

A Nigerian doctor practicing in the United Kingdom has been sentenced to three years in prison for defrauding the National Health Service of over £268,000 by working shifts at other hospitals while on certified sick leave from his primary role. The case exposes a profound breach of trust within the healthcare system, revealing how personal gain can sometimes corrupt even the most vital public institutions.

Key Points:
  • Dr. Richard Akinrolabu was sentenced to three years for defrauding the NHS.
  • He fraudulently obtained £268,000 while on sick leave from King's College Hospital.
  • The doctor worked shifts at three other NHS trusts during his sick leave period.
  • His primary hospital paid his full salary and hired locums to cover his absence.
  • The fraud was uncovered in 2021 when the hospital was tipped off.
  • Akinrolabu pleaded guilty to four counts of fraud by false representation.
  • The judge condemned his actions as a doctor "lying for personal gain."
This sentencing underscores the zero-tolerance approach to corruption within public health systems, where breaches of fiduciary duty carry severe professional and legal consequences.

Sources: Leadership