Police have reported a significant improvement in the recovery of funds lost to scams since the establishment of the Anti-Scam Centre, marking a major step forward in efforts to combat financial fraud in the Maldives.

The update was shared during a police press conference held today, where Adam Naveed, who oversees operations at the Anti-Scam Centre, outlined the centre’s progress.

He said targeted and coordinated efforts have enabled authorities to recover a substantial portion of money lost to scam-related crimes.

According to Naveed, approximately 32 percent of funds lost to scams over the past ten months have been successfully recovered.

He described the recovery rate as highly encouraging, noting that the results are comparable to those achieved in more advanced countries.

Since beginning operations ten months ago, the Anti-Scam Centre has received 1,663 reported cases involving financial scams.

The total amount lost in these cases is estimated at MVR 22.7 million, of which MVR 8.5 million has already been recovered. Naveed added that prior to the centre’s establishment, recovery rates stood at just two percent.

Police said a range of measures are being implemented to prevent and disrupt scam operations.

They also highlighted that extensive efforts are currently underway in collaboration with international partners to strengthen enforcement and improve recovery outcomes.