Police to investigate $5800 theft from MP’s mother

A Criminal Investigations Department (CID) team is investigating a theft amounting to $5800, which was stolen from the mother of Member of Parliament Alvick Maharaj.

The alleged incident occurred on December 19, 2024, when Malti Devi, 66, discovered her purse was missing as she was collecting medication at CWM Hospital.

“She was unaware at the time, but the next day around 9am, while preparing to pay for a physiotherapy session, she realised the purse was missing,” Mr Maharaj said.

He quickly contacted the Bank South Pacific to block the card.

However, it was only then that the bank informed him the card had been used for withdrawals and purchases.

“The culprit had withdrawn money from ATMs and swiped the card at Thirsty Liquor in Lami for a purchase of around $1800,” Mr Maharaj said.

Concerned that evidence had already been generated through ATM transactions, he lodged a formal complaint at Raiwaqa Police Station, requesting immediate action.

“I was attended to by an officer who took the statement and told me the case would be referred to Totogo Police Station,” he said. Upon reviewing the bank statement, Mr Maharaj realised the total amount stolen was $5800, and voiced his frustration.

“I’ve exhausted all efforts to assist the police in identifying the culprit, but there has been no urgency.

It’s been more than two weeks,” he said.

“If we are serious about national security, administrative issues like this need to be resolved. Police must be more proactive.”

Acting Commissioner of Police Juki Fong Chew {pictured inset) confirmed the investigation is ongoing.

“The investigators have secured Closed Circuit Television (CCTV) footage from the outlet in Lami. They are also waiting for approval from the relevant bank to retrieve camera footage from the ATM,” Mr Chew said.

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