The Maldives Police Service has amended the Police Service Retirement Regulation to suspend retirement allowance payments for retired officers who take up employment in State institutions or Government-owned companies, in line with the Government’s efforts to address public concern over dual benefit arrangements.

The amended policy, which applies to both newly retired personnel and those who retired before the change, states that retirement allowances will be paused for the duration of a retiree’s term in a State body, elected office, or Government-owned enterprise, and will resume the month after they leave that position. Retirees are also required to inform the Police Service in writing if they return to State employment; any allowance received during that period must be repaid to the Pension Fund as instructed.

The decision follows concerns raised by members of the public regarding retired individuals drawing pension benefits while simultaneously earning a salary from Government institutions. Speaking during a meeting with residents of Hulhumalé Phase I, President Dr Mohamed Muizzu said the move was necessary to ensure fairness and accountability in State spending, emphasising that the same principle would apply across the MNDF, police, and civil service frameworks.

The regulation further clarifies that retirees serving in State bodies may only claim one benefit when they eventually leave public service: either the retirement allowance linked to their police service or compensation tied to their later post, but not both.

According to the Maldives Police Service, the changes are intended to standardise allowance practices, close long-standing administrative loopholes, and ensure that State funds are distributed in a manner consistent with public expectations.