Maafushi jail officers suspended over a year for smuggling allegations

Officers from the Maldives Correctional Service accused of smuggling drugs and mobile phones into Maafushi Jail remain under suspension, the Corrections Department has confirmed.

In June last year, police arrested 18 corrections officers in connection with the alleged smuggling operation, which reportedly generated over MVR 73 million. Of those arrested, five are now facing formal charges.

The individuals charged are:

- Jinah Abdul Raheem from R. Ungoofaaru, Ivoryhouse

- Ali Asfag from M. Landhoo, Kaaminige

- Ali Shaheem from K. Maafushi, Beachhouse

- Mohamed Fathooh Fathullah from GA. Villingili, Kuhlhavahge

- Ali Nazim from HDh. Neykurendhoo, Tharaanaage

When asked about the status of the 13 other officers implicated in the case, a Corrections Department media officer confirmed they remain suspended, as the investigation is still ongoing.

While no further official details were provided, it is understood that the suspended officers are not receiving pay. According to information obtained by Mihaaru News, some of the suspended officers have offered to resign, and others have already started working elsewhere.

All five officers charged in the case have now been released from custody.

According to police, one officer received deposits totaling MVR 24 million into a single account on multiple occasions. In total, MVR 73.6 million was deposited into the accounts of the accused within a span of one year.