Maldives Inland Revenue Authority (MIRA), on Monday, announced the publication of its 'Criminal Procedures Regulation'.
The new regulations, which came into effect the same day, will be followed by MIRA during criminal investigations related to taxes.
They grant MIRA the authority to file charges against suspected individuals and business over tax frauds at Maldives Police Service and the Prosecutor General's Office.
MIRA is also able to conduct its own investigations into potential tax-related crimes, including the power to summon suspects, witnesses and other persons of interest for questioning. Furthermore, the authority may request for a court order to summon the individuals should they fail to comply with MIRA's summon.
Under the regulation, MIRA can request law enforcement bodies to detain individuals for investigative purposes, in accordance with judicial proceedings, as well.
In addition, the regulations give power to the tax agency to request for wire-taps, confiscate passports and impose financial restrictions on those involved in the probe.