Deputy Speaker and Member of Parliament for the Dhiggaru constituency Ahmed Nazim has stated that investigations have revealed gambling was linked to the theft of more than 13 million cigarettes while they were in customs custody, with the involvement of several local companies.

Speaking during the debate on amendments to the Penal Code to criminalise gambling and the operation of gambling establishments, MP Nazim said investigations into recent major crimes have uncovered widespread gambling activities in the Maldives. He noted that gambling increases the likelihood of other criminal offences being committed.

Referring to recent theft cases, the MP said proceeds from the theft of more than 13 million cigarettes were used for gambling in an attempt to generate profit. He was referring to the theft of a container of cigarettes from the Hulhumalé International Terminal operated by Maldives Ports Limited, in which ten individuals have been submitted for charges at the Criminal Court in connection with the case.

“Those involved in the cigarette theft bet the money, gambled with it, and attempted to make profits. In the process, the funds were lost, and separate companies were established to deposit money earned from gambling into their accounts,” he said.

The MP added that investigations have revealed the involvement of Maldivian companies that facilitate gambling-related transactions by depositing small amounts into gamblers’ accounts in ways that are difficult for banks to detect.

He further noted that banks have begun identifying individuals accessing gambling websites and restricting the use of their cards, adding that the proposed legal amendments would play a key role in curbing gambling in the Maldives.

The first reading of the Penal Code amendment bill, which seeks to make gambling and operating a gambling establishment a criminal offence, was presented in Parliament on Monday.

President Dr Mohamed Muizzu announced the bill on 10 December 2024. Under the proposed amendments, gambling and the operation of gambling establishments would be classified as fourth-degree felonies, carrying prison sentences of between one and four years.