Maldives Police Service has launched an investigation into the suspected circulation of MVR 400 million through the accounts of a group of employees at Maldives Customs Service, believed to be a case of fraud.

A senior government official revealed that the issue involves 20 customs officers, some of whom are accused of receiving bribes related to import duty collections. Police have reportedly begun investigations into three to four of the officers, and electronic devices belonging to those individuals have been seized.

The officers under scrutiny work in various departments, including the customs headquarters and airport unit. Most of them are involved in administrative tasks, such as form processing. It was also reported that one of the implicated officers has already retired.

Currently, the officers being actively investigated are on leave. Despite attempts to obtain further details, police have not provided comments on the case.

Authorities are continuing their probe into the matter to determine the extent of the fraud and any potential breaches of trust within the Customs Service.