Maldives Police Service have recovered over MVR 80,000 in connection with a fraud scheme involving fake bank transfer slips used to obtain goods from businesses in Malé and Hulhumalé.

The investigation was launched in May following a complaint from a Hulhumalé-based retail outlet, which reported receiving falsified payment confirmations in exchange for goods. Further inquiries revealed that several other shops across the capital had fallen victim to the same scheme.

The suspects were apprehended on June 17. Surveillance footage reportedly linked the operation to two apartments within the Hiyaa housing complex. A search of the premises uncovered items believed to have been acquired through the fraudulent transactions. A local court remanded the Maldivian man into custody for 15 days, while the Bangladeshi man was held for five days as investigations continues.

Police confirmed that the funds have been returned to affected vendors and stated that efforts are ongoing to trace additional evidence and determine whether others may be involved in the case.