Expat Fined MVR 12,000 for Smuggling Attempt of USD 81,000

A 32-year-old Bangladeshi man, Shahmin Islam Shagur, faced legal action after being caught with a significant amount of undeclared foreign currency while attempting to leave the Maldives. This case has drawn attention to the growing issue of smuggling from the island nation.

The Incident: Cash Hidden in Cornflakes

Shagur was apprehended at Velana International Airport while trying to board a flight to Dhaka, Bangladesh. He had concealed a large sum of money—USD 81,030—inside cornflakes packets in his luggage. The authorities were quick to act, and upon further investigation, it was confirmed that he was trying to smuggle the money out of the country illegally.

Legal Action Taken

After being charged with attempting to smuggle goods out of the Maldives, Shagur pleaded guilty. As part of his plea agreement with the prosecution, he agreed to a series of conditions, including his deportation back to Bangladesh.

In court, the judge ruled that Shagur would be fined MVR 12,000 for his actions. Additionally, the USD 81,030 found in his possession was ordered to be confiscated by the state.

The Outcome

The court acted quickly on the case, expediting the process in light of Shagur's guilty plea. In exchange for the reduced fine, he will be deported back to Bangladesh as soon as the ruling is finalized.

This case is a reminder of the ongoing efforts by Maldivian authorities to crack down on smuggling activities. Smuggling, whether it's currency or other goods, undermines the economic stability of the country.