All passports seized over land sale corruption released

Mar 26, 2025, 8:32 AM
Former HDC MD Fazul Rasheed. -- Adhadhu File Photo.

Former HDC MD Fazul Rasheed. -- Adhadhu File Photo.

All passports seized in connection with the alleged sale of land to people who did not get land under the Binveriya scheme have been released.

Police media team confirmed to Adhadhu on Tuesday night that all the seized passports have been returned.

Police said the investigation was ongoing, but did not clarify why the passports were handed over.

Twenty passports were seized under a court order in connection with the case.

They include former Housing Development Corporation (HDC) Managing Director Ibrahim Fazul Rasheed, his brother Mohamed Fazeel Rasheed, HDC board members and Deputy Housing Minister Azuhar Abdullah Saeed (Azhart) and some current and former political appointees of the ministry.

Nine of the passports were released on December 30, while the remaining 11 passports were released recently.

Police earlier said the first nine passports were released in consultation with the Prosecutor General's (PG) office.

Fazul resigned as HDC MD after the investigation was launched late last year. Police raided his home and summoned him for a statement.

MVR 1.4 million in cash was seized from Fazul's house during the raid. However, police returned the money to him last month before completing the investigation.

Comments

Read More

Latest News

MMA restricts medical USD allowance to six countries

The Maldives Monetary Authority has restricted the $1,000 medical currency allowance to six specific countries to ensure funds are used for their intended purpose. This change follows a surge in foreign currency demand for private travel. The $2,000 allowance for state-funded Aasandha patients remains unchanged.

Scholars Union warn Rasmalé deal threatens Islamic unity

The Union of Religious Scholars warns that the Rasmalé land deal with a UAE-based firm threatens the Maldives' Islamic identity and sovereignty. They expressed concerns to the government about the settlement of foreigners and the potential permanent loss of territory. The group has urged the President to reconsider the 99-year lease agreement.

Prosecution alleges Yameen orchestrated MMPRC embezzlement

Prosecutors allege former Maldives President Abdulla Yameen orchestrated the MMPRC embezzlement scandal to secure illicit funds. During a hearing on the Raa Fuggiri lease, the state claimed Yameen abused his power to accept $1.1 million in bribes and launder money, using his influence over former VP Ahmed Adeeb to execute the scheme.

Staff shortages stall investigations, NIC tells Majlis

The National Integrity Commission told Parliament that a shortage of investigators has caused a significant backlog of unresolved cases. Despite receiving 196 complaints last year, mostly against the police, the commission struggled with only four to nine staff members. Priority is now being given to clearing these pending investigations.

RDC ordered to pay MVR 11.7 million to Indian firm

The Maldives Civil Court has ordered the Road Development Corporation (RDC) to pay MVR 11.7 million to India’s Lucky Global Projects in a single lump sum. Despite RDC’s request for installments due to financial distress, the court ruled for full payment because the creditor refused to accept a staggered schedule.

Three Bangladeshis remanded after police seize alcohol bottles

Three Bangladeshi nationals were remanded in custody following a police raid on a large-scale distribution network in Henveiru. Authorities seized 826 bottles of alcohol stored in a local warehouse. The suspects, aged 25 to 43, were ordered to be held for periods ranging from five to 15 days as investigations continue.

Elderly pilgrims prioritised with new policy for seniors over 70

A new policy prioritizes first-time pilgrims over age 70 for the next Hajj, granting spots to 324 seniors on the waiting list. While this may delay younger applicants by a year, it ensures elderly citizens can fulfill their religious duties. One family member may also be prioritized to accompany them for support.

Newsletter

Get the latest news delivered straight to your inbox