Man wanted for allegedly defrauding First Nation

The RCMP is searching for a former employee of the Whitecap Dakota First Nation who allegedly defrauded the band of a "significant" amount of money.

Hugo Gallegos, who worked in the First Nation's accounting department, is charged with theft of over $5,000. RCMP have been unable to track him down and have issued a Canada-wide warrant for his arrest.

Police believe he may have fled the country. They said he has ties toElSalvador, where he is from.

Chief Darcy Bear said at a press conferencethat the First Nation is missing over $1-million.

"I would be lying if I said I'm not angry," Bear said. "Ifeel absolutely furious. But being angry won't do us any good right now. What we need to do is take the steps to assist the police to gather evidence and to recover whatever funds we can."

We don't wish this on any community.- Chief Darcy Bear

The First Nation notified Saskatoon RCMP of the missing money earlier this month. The investigation is ongoing and police anticipate further charges.

Bear saidthat the lost money hasimpacted the First Nation's cash flow.

"Whitecap has the fiscal strength to continue to move forward, provide services to our members, continue to work with our partners and our economic activities, but we want this person brought to justice," he said."We don't wish this on any community, but this is years of hard work,not only with ourselves, but with all of our partners."

Gallegos is described as havinga light complexion, with brown eyes and hair. He stands 5 9 in height and isknown to wear glasses or contacts.

The RCMP is asking the public for assistance in locating him.Police believe he isn't a risk to the public, but ask people to contact their local police agency or Saskatchewan Crime Stoppers if they see him.