Askoi Group Under Investigation Over Alleged Umrah Travel Fraud
Photo: Islamic Ministry
Askoi Group is under investigation for failing to facilitate an Umrah pilgrimage despite having received payment from a group of travellers.
The issue came to public attention after a family of six revealed that they had paid a total of MVR 252,000 (MVR 42,000 per person) since August last year. According to the family, they were initially informed that their departure was scheduled for this Ramadan. However, at the last minute, Askoi Group cited “technical problems” as the reason for the cancellation and assured them that the money would be refunded after the 15th of the following month.
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Following public outcry on social media, the Islamic Ministry confirmed that it had launched an investigation. Minister Mohamed Shaheem stated that the matter had been reported to the relevant authorities and that necessary actions would be taken.
The minister also stressed that strict measures would be enforced against any organisation found to be in violation of regulations governing Umrah travel. He noted that in recent cases, permits of similar groups had been revoked and disciplinary action had been taken.
The Islamic Ministry has assured that if the Askoi Group is found to have breached the rules, appropriate penalties will be imposed.
