Regarding the occurrence of theft incident by an employee of the University of Tokyo Consumer Cooperative Association
November 24, 2023
To all members and users
Regarding the occurrence of theft incident by an employee of the University of Tokyo Consumer Cooperative Association
The University of Tokyo Co-op
We have discovered that a co-op employee (at the time) has stolen computers and other items from the Hongo First Purchasing Department of our co-op. Below we would like to provide an overview of the incident and explain our future response measures
This theft is a scandal that has shaken public trust in the Co-op, and we offer our sincere apologies for the great inconvenience caused to our members and users
- Summary of the incident
On August 22, 2023, the theft of a computer and other items from the First Purchasing Department by the employee was discovered. As a result of the investigation, it was determined that the employee had committed multiple thefts between October 2022 and August 2023, with the total amount of damage amounting to approximately 7.9 million yen
2. Response from the University of Tokyo Co-op
As soon as the incident came to light, we established an emergency response system, discussed our response with our legal counsel, and conducted an investigation and follow-up while consulting with the local police station. As described above, we have determined the full extent of the incident and the damages caused. After the incident came to light, we reported the progress to the university and shared information with them in order to file a complaint with the police. Following the prescribed procedures, the employee in question was dismissed on September 20th, and the full amount of damages was paid by the end of September
3. Measures to prevent recurrence
① Establishment of a committee to review recurrence prevention
At the Board of Directors meeting on September 27th, a committee to consider preventing recurrence was established, and specific measures to prevent recurrence were discussed during October, and a report was made at the Board of Directors meeting on October 18th
② Internal control
In light of this theft incident, we held a study session on internal controls for senior executives in early November. Going forward, we will regularly identify risks and consider countermeasures for each business division to create a work environment where fraud does not occur
The University of Tokyo Co-op takes this scandal very seriously and is committed to taking measures to prevent a recurrence so that such an incident will never occur again and so that we can regain the trust of everyone
