Maldivian Ex-Leader Convicted of Embezzlement and Laundering Millions

Former President Abdulla Yameen has been found guilty of embezzling millions of dollars from Maldives’ tourism industry, including a $1 million payout for leasing an island to developers without bidding. This conviction comes after a three-year investigation by the Organized Crime and Corruption Reporting Project (OCCRP) exposed a massive corruption scheme involving dozens of islands leased illegally for tourist developments.

Illegal Leasing Deals

Yameen, who served as president from 2013 to 2018, was accused of pocketing millions in illegal leasing deals. One such deal involved the alleged $1 million payout for leasing the Aarah island in Vaavu atoll. The island was later sold to former parliamentarian Yoosuf Naeem, who was also convicted last Sunday of bribing Yameen.

Massive Corruption Scheme

The OCCRP investigation revealed that Yameen was involved in a massive corruption scheme where dozens of lagoons were leased illegally for tourist developments. Offshore corporate secrecy hid the identities of many leaseholders, resulting in the Maldivian people losing approximately $80 million due to these deals.

Foreign Businessmen Involved

The investigation also uncovered links to foreign businessmen, including a former deputy chief of staff for Russian leader Vladimir Putin and an Indian businessman who allegedly bribed Yameen $1.1 million in exchange for the illegal lease of another island.

Sentence and Appeal

Yameen was sentenced to prison on Maafushi island, which has held political prisoners in the past, including his predecessor Mohammed Nasheed. His lawyer plans to appeal the conviction as soon as possible, but prosecutors argue that Yameen’s actions were not only corrupt but also illegal.

Significance of the Conviction

The conviction is seen as a significant blow to Yameen’s political career and a step towards holding him accountable for his alleged crimes. This verdict marks a major victory for the Maldivian government in its efforts to combat corruption and bring transparency to its tourism industry.