MPs raise allegations over Maldive Gas losses during gambling bill debate

Members of parliament on Monday accused the managing director of Maldive Gas, Abdulla Mohamed, of gambling in connection with a loss of USD 250,000, equivalent to about MVR 3.9 million, incurred by the company on a gas shipment.

The allegation was first raised during an extraordinary sitting of the People’s Majlis by Hussain Ziyad, the Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP) member for Vikaradhoo. The debate was held on a government proposal to amend the Penal Code to make gambling a criminal offence.

Speaking during the debate, Hussain Ziyad said he became aware of the matter while serving on the parliament’s Finance Committee. He stated that a case reviewed by the committee involved a government company managing director discussing a loss of USD 250,000.

He questioned whether the matter had not been pursued further due to the absence of provisions on gambling in the Penal Code, stating that the public would seek clarity on the issue.

A case involving a loss of USD 240,000, equivalent to around MVR 3.7 million, was reported in April last year. The matter was referred to the Finance Committee and the Anti-Corruption Commission for investigation. Maldive Gas has stated that efforts are ongoing to recover the funds. Gas import operations were also temporarily transferred to the State Trading Organization.

Hussain Ziyad also questioned whether the proposed amendment would be implemented if passed, stating that legislation alone was insufficient without enforcement. He noted that gambling activities had shifted to online platforms and referred to previous laws that, he said, had not been effectively enforced.

Speaking later in the debate, Ahmed Shamheed, the MDP member for Hulhumalé South, said the bill should provide a clear definition of gambling. He also alleged that Maldive Gas had incurred losses through foreign exchange trading.

Shamheed said senior members of the ruling coalition had stated in parliament that USD 250,000 was lost through forex trading. He added that he had personally incurred losses through forex and stock investments and said the broad definition of gambling in the bill required clarification.