In a significant move against alleged corruption within the healthcare sector, the Prosecutor General’s Office has directed the Anti-Corruption Commission (ACC) and the Maldives Police Service to launch a joint investigation into former senior officials of Indira Gandhi Memorial Hospital (IGMH). The probe centers on accusations of misconduct related to PCR testing during the COVID-19 pandemic.
The ACC has identified three key figures in this investigation: Ibrahim Saleem, the former CEO of IGMH; Dr. Ali Abdul Latheef, who chaired the hospital’s Procurement Committee and was a member of both the Technical Advisory Committee and Technical Advisory Group; and Dr. Milza Abdul Muhsin, the former Head of Laboratory. These individuals are suspected of misusing their official positions by providing PCR testing reagents from IGMH’s laboratory to RMLS Lab Services, a private company allegedly linked to personal interests.
The ACC’s investigation suggests that Dr. Latheef and RMLS Lab Services may have engaged in money laundering activities. Consequently, a separate case has been filed with the Maldives Police Service to delve deeper into these allegations. Additionally, the Maldives Inland Revenue Authority (MIRA) has been requested to scrutinize Dr. Latheef’s tax submissions for potential discrepancies.
This case is not isolated; the COVID-19 pandemic has unveiled multiple corruption issues within the Maldivian health sector. Notably, in 2020, the Health Ministry awarded a contract worth MVR 34.50 million to Executors General Trading for the procurement of 75 ventilators. However, only 15 ventilators were delivered, despite 90 percent of the payment being made in advance without securing necessary guarantees.
In light of these developments, public sentiment is rallying behind President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu’s unwavering stance against corruption in the medical field. His administration’s commitment to dismantling the so-called “medical mafia” has been met with widespread support, reflecting a collective desire for transparency and integrity within the healthcare system.
As the joint investigation unfolds, the nation watches closely, hopeful that accountability will prevail and serve as a deterrent against future malfeasance in vital public sectors.
If this is true, then rest of other recent past administrations corruptions, MUST be investigated for public to win trust in this administration.
Kobaa Dr. Yousuf Shan list ga? Isnt he a bloody medical mafia member?
This Ali Latheef and one Mr Ikleel apparently a Dr (who is also the brother of Maldives Ambassador to UK) is apparently involved in massive corruption. This Ikuleel fellow is the proxy for this Dr Latheef guy!