Investigation Underway as Expatriate Accused of Defacing Maldivian Currency

The Maldives Police Service has launched an investigation after video footage surfaced on social media showing an expatriate man intentionally damaging a Maldivian currency note by biting and tearing it into pieces.

The case came to the attention of law enforcement after the video began circulating on TikTok. The footage depicts an expatriate male putting a Maldivian five-rufiyaa note into his mouth, chewing it, and tearing it to shreds. The incident sparked widespread public outrage and condemnation online, with numerous citizens describing it as a grave insult to the national currency and demanding legal action against the perpetrator.

Responding to media inquiries, the police confirmed that they are aware of the circulating video and have initiated an investigation into the matter.

Under regulations set by the Maldives Monetary Authority (MMA), intentionally damaging, mutilating, or defacing Maldivian banknotes is strictly prohibited and constitutes an offence. Aside from ordinary wear and tear through regular circulation, altering a note's design, serial number, signature, or original condition is barred under the law.

Because Maldivian currency represents state property, intentionally damaging banknotes can also lead to charges under the Penal Code, including damaging state property and tampering with official documents. Such offences carry penalties ranging from substantial fines to imprisonment.