Government to take action against resort operating on Kihaadhuffaru illegally

The government has said it will take action against a resort in Baa atoll Kihaadhuffaru found to be operating in breach of the law.

In a statement on Thursday, the tourism ministry said Kihaa Maldives Resort, located on Kihaadhuffaru island, had been leased to Athama Marine International Pvt Ltd under an agreement with the ministry to develop a tourist resort.

The resort, however, was not being run in accordance with the Tourism Act or the ministry’s standards, the statement said. The company’s temporary licence to operate expired on 27 September last year and had not been renewed.

The ministry said Athama Marine International had been fined twice for running the resort without a valid licence and for accommodating guests without permission.