Maldives Ports Limited MPL has suspended 6 of its employees in connection with the case of the stolen cigarette container carrying more than 13.6 million cigarettes.
The container was stolen while under the custody of MPL at its terminal in Hulhumale'.
In a statement, MPL said that the company had begun an internal investigation the moment the theft was reported on the 8th of this month.
MPL stated that after the initial findings, the company moved to suspend 5 employees on Sunday and another employee yesterday.
It said that MPL's Investigation Committee, Risk Department, and Internal Audit are already conducting investigations and audits to identify important steps to be taken in the company's operations.
MPL said the security of the ports it maintains is implemented within the standards set by the International Ship and Port Facility Security (ISPS) Code. The port is regularly audited by ISPS and maintained through a system that meets the standard.
MPL has initiated all necessary efforts to further strengthen its security architecture in collaboration with state security agencies, law enforcement agencies, and ministries.
The company further said that the company has started discussions with the Maldives Customs Service, the Ministry of Defence, the Ministry of Home Affairs, and the Prosecutor General's Office on measures to prevent such an incident from happening again.
MPL noted that the case is also being investigated by the police, and MPL will continue to release information regarding the case on the advice and consultation of the police.
It said it would not hesitate to take action against any employee involved in the incident. The main objective is to maintain the trust of the company among businesses and the public.
