The Housing Development Corporation (HDC) has formally requested the Maldives Police Service to audit and investigate discrepancies related to land plots allocated under the Binveriya (Landowner) Scheme in Hulhumalé. This action follows the emergence of multiple applications for building permits on single plots, raising concerns about potential irregularities.
In a statement released on Monday, HDC highlighted that upon receiving building permit applications, instances were identified where more than one individual sought permission to construct on the same plot. Recognizing the gravity of this issue, HDC has committed to conducting a thorough investigation and implementing necessary corrective measures.
The corporation also disclosed that a special audit of the Binveriya Scheme, initiated during former President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih’s administration, has been completed. This audit uncovered additional concerns, which have been forwarded to the police for further examination. HDC emphasized its dedication to integrity and assured the public of its commitment to address such matters proactively.
The controversy first came to light in December 2024 when reports surfaced alleging that Mohamed Fazeel Rasheed, brother of then-HDC Managing Director Ibrahim Fazul Rasheed, commenced construction on a plot without official allocation under the Binveriya Scheme. Photographs circulated showing boundary wall constructions on the disputed plot. The Housing Ministry subsequently informed HDC that Fazeel was not among the scheme’s beneficiaries. In response, Fazul resigned from his position, and several HDC board members were suspended to facilitate an impartial investigation.
Further investigations revealed that documents suspected to be forged had been submitted in connection with these unauthorized allocations. The Anti-Corruption Commission (ACC) has since launched its own probe into the allegations, focusing on the purported allocation of Hulhumalé plots to individuals not listed as recipients under the Binveriya Scheme.
The Binveriya Scheme, a significant housing initiative, allocated over 9,000 land plots to Malé residents, with specific allocations from Hulhumalé Phase II and reclaimed areas such as Gulhi Falhu and Giraavaru Falhu. Recipients were authorized to construct buildings up to ten stories high on these plots. The recent allegations have cast a shadow over the scheme, prompting authorities to scrutinize the allocation processes to ensure transparency and fairness.
As investigations by both the police and ACC continue, HDC has reiterated its commitment to uphold integrity in its operations and to cooperate fully with all investigative bodies. The corporation assures the public that any irregularities identified will be addressed promptly to maintain trust in the housing allocation system.
