The Ministry of Lands, Housing and Country Planning has handed over one Mohamed Ansumana M. Dabeni to the Criminal Investigations Department (CID) following a theft that took place at the Ministry’s headquarters on Wednesday, 12 August 2026.
According to the Ministry, the incident happened at the reception area where Dabeni was caught on CCTV stealing a bag belonging to an Egyptian national. The bag is said to have contained more than US$20,000 in cash.
The theft was only noticed after Dabeni had already left the premises. However, a quick review of the CCTV footage clearly identified him as the culprit. Ministry staff later apprehended him and immediately handed him over to the police.
The Ministry confirmed that Dabeni has confessed to the crime but has refused to cooperate in recovering the stolen money. He is currently in police custody as the CID continues its investigation.
In a statement, the Ministry praised its staff for their vigilance and swift action. It also assured the public of its continued commitment to ensuring security at its offices.
