Customs denies retirement claims amid graft probe

Maldives Customs Service on Tuesday clarified that none of the officers currently under investigation for their involvement in a corruption case have retired.

This statement follows rumours circulating on social media that some officers accused of fraud, bribery, and money laundering had been given the opportunity to retire.

The ongoing investigation, which involves accusations of fraudulent import duty payments and the circulation of MVR 400 million in customs officers' accounts, is being led by the Maldives Police Service. Authorities are probing the matter under charges of unjust enrichment, bribery, abuse of office, and money laundering.

Customs issued a public statement on Tuesday confirming that it had been informed of the investigation and is fully cooperating with law enforcement agencies. The statement emphasised that Customs had not facilitated the retirement of any officers implicated in the case, countering the online rumours.

According to police, around 20 officers are believed to be connected to the case, although Customs clarified that the investigation currently involves four officers, not three as previously reported. Some of the officers' personal phones and other equipment have been seized as part of the investigation.

The matter has also been brought to the attention of the 241 committee on security services in the parliament. The committee has been informed of the ongoing inquiry and the steps taken to address the corruption allegations within the Customs.