Police Launch Investigation into Askoi Hajj and Umrah Tours’ Alleged Fraud

The Maldives Police Service has initiated an investigation into Askoi Hajj and Umrah Tours Private Limited following allegations that the company collected payments from customers but failed to provide promised Umrah services.

In a message shared with media outlets today, police confirmed that the Economic Crime Investigation Department has begun investigating the matter after consulting with relevant authorities.

The police have urged any other individuals who may have been affected by similar incidents involving Askoi Group to report their cases by calling the Economic Crime Division at 9790048 or visiting the Criminal Investigation Building in person.

A previous incident emerged where Askoi Group collected payments from individuals for an Umrah package scheduled during the last 15 days of Ramadan and the six days of Shawwal but failed to deliver the service.

In May, the Islamic Ministry fined Askoi Group MVR 130,000 for this violation and ordered them to pay the fine within 30 days. The company was also instructed to refund all payments collected from customers.