A Corruption Scandal Unveiled: The Fuel Supplies Maldives allegedly secretly sells Bunker Barges. A shocking corruption scandal has erupted in the Maldives as allegations surface of the country’s fuel supply company clandestinely selling off its bunker barges in Eritrea. The scandal has sent shockwaves through the industry, raising serious questions about transparency, accountability, and the integrity of key institutions.
The Fuel Supplies Maldives (FSM), responsible for ensuring a steady and reliable source of fuel for the nation’s maritime and inland operations, is now at the center of a brewing controversy. Multiple sources have come forward with claims that the company deliberately and discreetly sold its bunker barges, vessels critical for delivering fuel domestically, without proper disclosure or oversight.
Whistleblowers within the company allege that high-ranking officials were involved in orchestrating the secret sale of the bunker barges. The vessels, which would play an essential role in providing fuel to connect trade networks, were allegedly sold off in Eritrea during their maiden voyage after shipyard, to undisclosed buyers at below-market prices, raising suspicions of embezzlement and graft.
The secrecy surrounding the sale has raised concerns about the potential motives behind the deal. Experts in the maritime industry assert that this move could jeopardize energy security and disrupt critical domestic supply chains, ultimately impacting domestic trade and well-being.
Additionally, it has been reported by trustworthy and anonymous sources that Maldivian crew members were not given any petty cash for immediate use, but Egyptian crew members are given real cash to resolve any disputes that may occur. As required by the Seafarer Employment Agreement, FSM is refusing to pay wages to local crew members when they arrive in the Maldives. At the moment, the Ministry of Transport is investigating the matter.
FSM offers a section on their website for whistleblowers. This page will allow you to look into it. https://fsm.mv/whistleblow
Despite the scandal’s exposure, there was little public indignation in the Maldives because of how indirectly the energy industry affects the populace. Social media provides a platform for citizens to vent their frustrations and press the government for clarification. But given that the national presidential election campaign is now underway, it won’t happen now. We seek a comprehensive inquiry into the allegations and the prompt dismissal of all officials connected to the incident since FSM has embezzled taxpayer funds.
Civil society organizations shall demand transparency and accountability. Shall call for an independent inquiry to uncover the truth and hold those responsible accountable. The scandal has shed light on the need for robust mechanisms to prevent corruption within key institutions and to ensure that public assets are protected and managed in the best interest of the nation. Officials have pledged to take decisive action if any wrongdoing is confirmed, stating that the government is committed to upholding the highest standards of integrity and accountability
- HMS Warrior launched in 1860 is now a museum ship
- Discovering Southampton Port
- ISGOTT Checks pre-arrival Ship/Shore Safety Checklist
- International Convention for the Safety of Life at Sea, SOLAS 1974
- ISGOTT-6 Bunkering Checklists: Updated Guidelines for Safe and Efficient Bunkering Operations
The FSM has made a futile statement in which it acknowledges the gravity of the scandal. The FSM’s reputation has been tarnished by the corruption scandal that is still in progress, but it has also caused shockwaves. The Maldives’ dedication to battling corruption and regaining public confidence in its institutions will be put to the test as investigations continue and more information becomes available.
