Title: “Stealing Paradise: Al Jazeera Investigation Reveals $1.5 Billion Money Laundering Allegations Against Maldives Government”
Overview
- New Al Jazeera documentary alleges elaborate money laundering scheme involving Maldives government officials
- $1.5 billion in cash brought into the Maldives through Central Bank
The Plan
- Asian businessmen, represented by “Mr. Hans,” looked for a discreet method to transfer vast sums of money
- Maldives government officials allegedly developed a plan to bring money into the Maldives through a chartered plane
- Funds transferred to a local vault for verification by Central Bank officials
- Private company account credited, making it appear as cleanly earned profits from a tourism investment
Red Flags and Concerns
- size of the transaction raises a huge red flag of money laundering
- if the Central Bank is involved, its Financial Intelligence Unit may overlook illicit activities
Reactions
- Maldives government denies any wrongdoing
- Evidence comes from data obtained from former Vice President Ahmed Adeeb’s iPhones
- Detailed emails, text messages, and Viber logs between top Maldives officials
Expert Opinions
- Anti-corruption expert Robert Palmer, Global Witness, comments on money laundering red flags
Current Situation
- Maldives government maintains they are working to combat illicit activities
- Waiting to see if any further actions will ensue following “Stealing Paradise” revelations