The Maldives Police Service has confiscated the mobile phones of MWSC Deputy Managing Director Mohamed Fazeel Rasheed and several others as part of an ongoing investigation into the Binveriyaa scheme fraud. This action was taken under a court order related to the controversial case, where Fazeel is alleged to have illegally obtained a plot of land in Hulhumalé.
Allegations Involving Fazeel Rasheed
Fazeel Rasheed, who is the younger brother of Ibrahim Fazul Rasheed, the former Managing Director of the Housing Development Corporation (HDC), is at the center of this investigation. The Maldives Police Service confirmed that the phones of Fazeel and others involved were seized in connection with the allegations surrounding the Binveriyaa scheme.
Fazeel applied for a permit to build a wall around a plot of land in Hulhumalé on June 30. His application, like that of another individual, was sent by HDC to the Housing Ministry for verification, which is a standard procedure. However, the Housing Ministry responded on August 15, stating that neither individual was listed in the Binveriyaa scheme. This response raised suspicions about the legitimacy of the land allocations.
The Binveriyaa Scheme Controversy
The Binveriyaa scheme is intended for land allocation in Hulhumalé, with specific criteria on who is eligible to receive plots. According to the scheme's rules, only individuals from Malé should be eligible for land. However, Fazeel, along with Abdul Majeed Mahir from HA. Dhidhhoo, applied for land under the scheme, despite not meeting the criteria.
This has led to accusations that Fazeel’s brother, Fazul, who held a senior position at HDC, used his influence to secure the plot for Fazeel. The matter has raised concerns about the integrity of the land allocation process, with both police and the Anti-Corruption Commission (ACC) now investigating the allegations.
Investigations and Suspensions
As part of the ongoing investigation, the police have seized the passports of 20 individuals, including Fazeel, Fazul, and several employees from the Housing Ministry and HDC. This action indicates the seriousness of the investigation and the potential involvement of multiple parties in the alleged fraud.
Following the revelations, Fazeel has been suspended from his role at the Maldives Water and Sewerage Company (MWSC). Similarly, Fazul was also suspended from his position at HDC but resigned on Saturday night, stating that he was stepping down to allow for a full investigation by the police and ACC.
Police also conducted a raid at Fazul’s residence on Monday night, where they seized electronic equipment that could be crucial to the investigation. These actions highlight the ongoing efforts to uncover the full extent of the alleged corruption.
The ongoing investigation into the Binveriyaa scheme fraud has far-reaching implications, particularly in terms of public trust in government institutions and their ability to manage land allocation transparently. As the case continues to unfold, both the police and ACC are working to determine the extent of any corruption related to the allocation of Vinares flats, which are part of the Binveriyaa scheme.
This case serves as a reminder of the importance of ensuring fairness and transparency in government operations, especially when it comes to the allocation of public resources like land. The outcome of the investigation could have significant consequences for the individuals involved and the wider political landscape in the Maldives.
