A team from the Criminal Investigations Department (CID) is currently probing a theft case involving a significant amount of $5,800 that was stolen from Malti Devi, the 66-year-old mother of Member of Parliament Alvick Maharaj. The incident took place on December 19, 2024, as Ms. Devi collected medication at CWM Hospital and later realized her purse was missing the following day while preparing to pay for physiotherapy services.
Mr. Maharaj acted swiftly by contacting Bank South Pacific to block his mother’s card; however, he was informed that the card had already been used for multiple withdrawals and purchases, including a notable transaction of around $1,800 at Thirsty Liquor in Lami. Mr. Maharaj expressed his frustration over the delay in action by the police, highlighting that substantial evidence had been generated through the ATM transactions shortly after the theft.
He filed a formal complaint at the Raiwaqa Police Station, but felt that the police response lacked urgency. “If we are serious about national security, administrative issues like this need to be resolved. Police must be more proactive,” he remarked, emphasizing the necessity for timely action in such cases.
Acting Commissioner of Police Juki Fong Chew confirmed that the investigation is ongoing, revealing that investigators have already secured CCTV footage from the liquor store and are awaiting approval from the bank to access ATM camera footage.
This case sheds light on the critical importance of swift police action in theft cases, especially involving significant amounts of money. The cooperation between law enforcement and financial institutions will be pivotal in resolving this case and ensuring justice for the victim.
Overall, there remains hope as the investigation continues, with the police actively working to gather evidence and identify the suspect through the available footage. This proactive approach may not only aid in this case but also heighten awareness and response protocols for future incidents of a similar nature.
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