Hans Manthir Ballah investigated for money laundering, Rs 700,000 seized
via Le Mauricien2 min read
The Financial Crimes Commission FCC conducted a targeted search at the home of businessman Hans Manthir Ballah, 46, in Ébène, as part of an investigation into suspected money laundering and financial offenses. Ballah is the nephew of former Secretary to Cabinet Nayen Kumar Ballah and related to the Jugnauth family. During the search, assisted by the Mauritian Police Intervention Group GIPM and the Dog Unit, FCC officers discovered and seized Rs 700,000 in cash, now considered potentially linked to suspicious transactions. A BMW belonging to Ballah was also seized. Additionally, rolling papers and approximately 5g of cannabis were found. Following the operation, Hans Manthir Ballah was taken to FCC headquarters for questioning Under Warning. Investigators suspect his direct involvement in financial offenses, including the purchase of the vehicle with questionable funds, and a provisional charge is likely. Investigators are tracing the origin of the seized funds and examining potential money laundering schemes. Ballah was previously arrested in April 2017 at SSR International Airport with MDMA and charged with unlawful possession under the Dangerous Drugs Act. He pleaded not guilty, claiming he bought the pills in Dubai as a sexual stimulant, unaware they were drugs. The charge was dropped in February 2023. The FCC continues its money laundering investigation, while the Anti-Drug and Smuggling Unit is handling the cannabis seizure aspect.
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This summary was AI-generated from a story originally published by Le Mauricien.
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