Police Seize Passports of 20, Including HDC MD Fazul

The Maldives Police Service has imposed travel bans on 20 individuals, including Ibrahim Fazul Rasheed, Managing Director of the Housing Development Corporation (HDC), as part of an ongoing investigation into alleged irregularities in the Binveriya Housing Scheme. Fazul's brother, Mohamed Fazeel Rasheed, Deputy Managing Director of MWSC, is also among those restricted from leaving the country.

The investigation stems from allegations that plots under the Binveriya Scheme, conducted during the previous administration, were improperly allocated to individuals who were not eligible recipients. Notably, accusations have surfaced that Fazul's brother received a plot in Hulhumalé Phase 2 through document manipulation. Leaked documents suggest that this plot was claimed by two separate parties, with both submitting requests to build boundary walls.

The leaked correspondence includes a letter signed by HDC’s Deputy Director Ahmed Aiman in July, seeking clarification from the Ministry of Housing, Land, and Urban Development about the legitimate recipient of the plot. In response, State Minister for Housing Ibrahim Nizam confirmed in August that neither individual was listed as a recipient under the Binveriya Scheme.

Fazul has denied any personal interest in the matter and called his brother's involvement a coincidence. He expressed his willingness to cooperate fully with authorities.

The Privatization Board has suspended Fazul and HDC board members in light of the ongoing investigation. The police continue to examine whether fraudulent practices or abuse of authority occurred.