An investigation has been launched into allegations that some senior police officials are involved in smuggling cigarettes from the duty-free shop at Velana International Airport (VIA).
When questioned by Mihaaru News, Home Minister Ali Ihusan stated that the matter is currently under investigation due to allegations against senior police officers. However, the minister said that nothing specific has been identified so far.
Along with accusations of senior police involvement in cigarette smuggling, there are also allegations of large sums of money circulating in accounts. Ihusan said they are investigating these claims as well.
On the 25th of last month, two people were arrested in a case where cigarette cartons were found when checking garbage bags being taken out from the airport's departure terminal. One of them was an intelligence police officer, Yoosuf Nazeer, registration number RS. 14358. As a result, he has been suspended from the police force without pay.
The other person arrested in the case was Ahmed Afzal of M. Silverest, who works at the airport.
After the arrest, they were brought to court for a decision on their remand, and they were released.
Sign In