Minister of Construction, Housing and Infrastructure Dr Abdulla Muththalib has urged the public not to fall victim to scams promising government flats or land plots in exchange for money.

Speaking in Parliament on Monday, the minister stressed that no one can secure a flat or plot by making payments or through personal connections. He assured the public that all housing allocations will be carried out strictly in accordance with established policies and procedures.

Dr Muththalib said he was using the opportunity to deliver an important message to the public following concerns raised by Members of Parliament about fraudulent claims linked to the Government's housing schemes.

He warned that individuals have been attempting to exploit members of the public by falsely claiming they can arrange housing allocations, including by misusing the names and positions of government officials.

The minister urged the public not to pay anyone who claims they can secure a flat or land plot, warning that such offers are fraudulent and will not result in an allocation. He added that many people have already lost substantial sums of money to such scams.

His remarks come as the Maldives Police Service investigates allegations that members of the public were defrauded after being promised government flats and land plots in return for money. Police have not disclosed the identities of those involved in the ongoing investigation.