Police Re-Announce Auction of Seized Sea Cucumbers Amid Embezzlement Probe

The Maldives Police Service has issued a second announcement regarding the auction of sea cucumbers seized in connection with an alleged embezzlement case.

The stock, valued at MVR 2 million, was confiscated as part of an investigation into the suspected misappropriation of goods from a warehouse in Thilafushi. The case was filed by an individual from Fuvahmulah, who alleged that the sea cucumbers had been unlawfully taken.

Police had previously announced plans to auction the seized items and on Wednesday released a fresh notice detailing four varieties of sea cucumbers to be sold. The listed prices range between MVR 300 and MVR 850 per kilogram.

According to police, a criminal investigation remains ongoing into the alleged embezzlement of a substantial quantity of sea cucumbers from the warehouse. A police investigation officer has been suspended from investigative duties over suspected involvement in the case. The matter is also under administrative review by the Professional Standards Command.

The Criminal Court earlier ruled that there was no legal obstacle preventing police from retaining the seized goods under the Criminal Procedure Act. That ruling has since been appealed at the High Court.