Housing Minister Dr Abdulla Muththalib has urged the public not to fall victim to housing scams following allegations that millions of MVR have been obtained from people through false promises of flats and land.

The warning comes as authorities investigate allegations against former Fisheries Ministry Deputy Minister Mohamed Yasin, who was dismissed from his post over allegedly accepting money in exchange for promising access to government housing and land.

Responding to questions in Parliament, Minister Muththalib stressed that government housing and land cannot be obtained by paying money or using personal connections.

"You can already see that these scams are taking place. Some people, including those who held positions in the government, have used those positions to extort money from the public," he said.

"I have also seen reports that even judges have become caught up in these scams."

The minister urged members of the public not to believe anyone claiming they can secure flats or land in exchange for money.

"Please do not fall for anyone offering you flats or land for payment. You will not receive them," he said.

Minister Muththalib said the allocation of government housing and land would continue to be carried out in accordance with established regulations and procedures.

He added that there would be no need for regulatory systems if allocations could be influenced through fraudulent payments or unofficial channels.