Two Deputy Commissioners of the Maldives Customs Service have been dismissed from their positions, with disciplinary action ordered against three additional employees, following investigations into two separate cases involving the illegal import and removal of cigarettes.

According to a statement from President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu on social media platform ‘X’ on Wednesday, the dismissals and disciplinary measures were based on findings and recommendations from the People’s Majlis Committee on National Security Services (the 241 Committee). The committee’s inquiry uncovered serious lapses in oversight and enforcement within Customs operations.

The first case involves the smuggling of cigarette cartons into the Maldives aboard an oil vessel owned by The Hawks Private Limited. The second concerns the unauthorized removal of 8,475 cigarette cartons from a bonded warehouse without Customs’ knowledge. Both incidents exposed significant failures in internal control and accountability mechanisms.

The president confirmed that the two Deputy Commissioners were dismissed in accordance with legal provisions, while the three other implicated employees will face disciplinary action as determined by internal investigations and Customs regulations.

These incidents come amid a sharp rise in the black-market trade of cigarettes and tobacco products, following the government’s recent tax hikes on tobacco and vape imports. The growing availability of low-cost, untaxed cigarettes has fueled concerns over corruption and systemic weaknesses within Customs enforcement.

The dismissals underscore escalating scrutiny over Customs’ role in combating illicit trade and the broader governance challenges facing key state institutions.