Maldives Customs Service, on Sunday, revealed that a high ranking official was dismissed in relation to a corruption case.
A Customs spokesperson disclosed that a criminal investigation was launched against the individual who previously held an executive position at Customs. No further details were provided.
Customs recently suspended two employees for illegally importing 21 vehicles. However, it is unknown whether the suspensions are related to the aforementioned dismissal.
Three cars, two pickup trucks and 14 motorcycles disguised as wood shipments were imported in two separate containers. The cost and freight charges of the vehicles, which were confiscated on August 27, are estimated at MVR 586,000.
Following his appointment as Commissioner General of Customs, Ahmed Noomaan guaranteed that he would clamp down on corruption within the institution and penalize culpable individuals.
Cases of illegal importation to avoid Customs duties are reported intermittently. According to the Anti-Corruption Commission (ACC) and other investigative bodies, such crimes are committed with the involvement of bribed Customs officials.
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