Recent reports have unveiled a significant corruption scandal within Maldives Ports Limited (MPL), implicating several executives in the alleged embezzlement of millions of rufiyaa.
According to information obtained by the local online news outlet “One,” certain MPL executives are suspected of receiving substantial sums through a local company. This company purportedly facilitated payments for high-value goods imported by foreign firms. Notably, former MPL Managing Director Mohamed Wajih Ibrahim, who was dismissed from his position recently, is among those under suspicion.
Sources indicate that foreign companies directed payments for imported goods to a Maldivian entity, which subsequently transferred large cash amounts to MPL executives. This local company is also alleged to have been involved in money laundering activities. In one instance, the corruption is believed to involve approximately MVR 24 million.
When approached, the Maldives Police Service stated that no investigations related to MPL are currently underway. Wajih, upon inquiry, expressed unawareness of any such matters. MPL’s media department also reported having no information regarding ongoing investigations.
This revelation adds to a series of corruption allegations that have plagued MPL in recent years. Notably, an internal audit in 2019 uncovered that MPL had spent over MVR 86 million without a competitive bidding process between 2015 and 2017. Additionally, in 2020, an investigation revealed corrupt transactions amounting to over MVR 8 million during the COVID-19 lockdown, leading to the resignation of MPL’s chairman, Mohamed Zaki.
These recurring incidents underscore the pressing need for enhanced transparency and accountability within state-owned enterprises in the Maldives.
