Ismail Suhail, former managing director of Fuel Supply Maldives (FSM), has been appointed deputy minister of the Ministry of Cities, Local Government and Public Works.

Adhadhu can confirm that the appointment was made a month ago despite an ongoing investigation into major corruption allegations linked to FSM, a subsidiary of the State Trading Organization (STO).

A source said Suhail was given the position because of his close relationship with a government minister.

The government did not announce his appointment.

An investigation is ongoing into FSM employees suspected of stealing fuel from the company and laundering the money gained from selling the oil.

Homeland Security Minister Ali Ihusaan revealed the investigation on social media on December 1. He said police had searched the homes of 10 individuals and two oil barges and recovered electronic equipment and documents related to the case.

The investigation into the suspected oil theft and money laundering is still ongoing. Several FSM employees were sacked after police initiated the investigation.

One suspect is the captain of an FSM oil barge who had circulated more than MVR 21 million through his account within a short period.

Sources told Adhadhu on condition of anonymity that his monthly salary is MVR 35,000 but more than MVR 21 million had circulated through his account within a short period.

Suhail resigned on November 26 after the board began the process of dismissing him. His home was raided for the investigation.