Calls for review after Riyaz’s dismissal over Hawks smuggling case

North Galolhu MP Mohamed Ibrahim (Kudu) has formally requested Parliament to reconsider the dismissal of Customs Deputy Commissioner Mahmood Riyaz, who was sacked over alleged involvement in a cigarette smuggling case linked to The Hawks Pvt Ltd.

The request was submitted on Thursday, a day after Riyaz and fellow Deputy Commissioner Abdullah Waheed were removed from office. President Dr Mohamed Muizzu confirmed the dismissals via X, stating they were carried out in accordance with the law following a review by Parliament’s Security Services Committee (241 Committee).

The case involves the illegal import of 200 master cartons of Manchester brand cigarettes aboard the oil tanker MT Hawks Javaahiru, which arrived in the Maldives on October 24, 2024. The contraband was offloaded at The Hawks boatyard jetty in Thilafushi without customs clearance and later disappeared from a bonded warehouse.

Riyaz has denied any wrongdoing. In a message to the Customs community group, he wrote: “I swear on God, I have not taken part in any wrongdoing, and will not either”.

Kudu, who represents Riyaz’s constituency, noted in his letter to the Speaker that Riyaz had served in Customs for 33 years without prior disciplinary issues. He urged Parliament to review the case.

Several Customs employees and former officials have voiced support for Riyaz on social media. Former Commissioner Abdullah Shareef described him as “capable and professional,” and called the dismissal unfair.

Meanwhile, the 241 Committee had launched a deeper inquiry into the Hawks case, including potential money laundering and financial transactions linked to the company. The committee has summoned senior officials, including the Minister of Homeland Security, the Police Commissioner, and the Customs Commissioner, for further clarification.

The Hawks company has denied involvement, stating that rogue employees misused company resources. It has suspended implicated staff and is cooperating with investigators.

Manchester brand cigarettes, which were smuggled in without being listed on the ship’s manifest, continue to circulate in the local market at low prices.