Policeman demoted for ‘alleging corruption’ in delayed housing project

A senior policeman was demoted last week after he alleged corruption over delays in a housing project for police officers, The Maldives Independent understands.

Chief Station Inspector Mohamed Hassan was demoted to the rank of station inspector a month after he lodged a complaint with the Anti Corruption Commission over the Blues Housing Project.

The MVR580million (US$37.6million) joint project by the Housing Development Corporation and the Police Cooperative Society (Polco) was inaugurated days before the 2013 presidential polls and 300 flats were promised to officers. The project was expected to be completed within two years, but local media report that only the foundation has been laid so far.

The down payment for the flats had been deducted from officers’ monthly salaries.

Polco has since cancelled its contract with Noomadi Resorts and Residences and is seeking a new contractor

A well-informed source told The Maldives Independent that Hassan was among a group of officers who had complained over the delay on the instant messaging app Viber.

Hassan was summoned on Monday and told the seven members of the police disciplinary board had decided to demote him, the source said.

A second officer, Station Inspector Mohamed Latheef was also demoted on the same day over messages on Viber.

Ismail Ali, the police spokesman declined to comment, saying officers who violate ethics are regularly disciplined.

The Blue’s Housing Project in Hulhumalé was to consist of 210 three-bedroom and 90 two-bedroom apartments.

The ACC was not responding to calls at the time of going to press.