The Financial Crimes Commission (FCC) in Mauritius has been investigating Mamy Ravatomanga, a Malagasy businessman, since his arrest on October 24, 2025. Ravatomanga faces two provisional charges of money laundering and one charge of criminal conspiracy related to alleged influence peddling. He denies the charges against him. A Criminal Attachment Order was issued on October 15, 2025, freezing assets and accounts worth approximately Rs 7.3 billion.
The case has multiple facets, including the sale of five Boeing 777 aircraft to Iran, the export of lychees, the importation of wheat, and two major infrastructure projects in Madagascar. According to the FCC, Ravatomanga allegedly received $5 million in connection with the sale of the Boeing 777 aircraft. However, Ravatomanga disputes this accusation. The lychee export sector is also under scrutiny, with authorities investigating alleged irregularities and associated financial flows.
An international rogatory commission has been launched to coordinate investigations between Mauritian and Malagasy authorities. The commission aims to gather evidence that can be used in proceedings initiated in Madagascar. Ravatomanga recently appeared before the Supreme Court in Mauritius, where he provided written answers to a series of questions. His defense team, led by lawyer Khushal Lobine, produced an affidavit signed by Ravatomanga.
Another key figure in the case is Nasser Bheeky, who was arrested in October 2025 and later released on bail. Bheeky allegedly served as an intermediary in a meeting between Ravatomanga, Christian Thomas, and Junaid Fakim, the former FCC commissioner. Bheeky has submitted documents and an audio recording to the FCC, which may implicate Fakim in a bribery scheme.
The case has also implicated Jean Karl Elysée, a former Senior Advisor at the Prime Minister's Office, who has resigned and been issued a Notice on Departure. This measure does not constitute a charge or declaration of guilt. Meanwhile, Junaid Fakim, the former FCC commissioner, has been provisionally charged with public official using office for gratification and breach of confidentiality.
Ravatomanga remains detained at the high-security prison in Melrose, and his latest bail application was debated before the Bail and Remand Court. A decision on his release is expected. The case has sparked significant attention, with many questioning the extent of Ravatomanga's influence and the alleged corruption involved.
As the investigation continues, Mauritius is likely to play a central role in the case, which has significant implications for both countries. The FCC's efforts to uncover the truth behind Ravatomanga's alleged financial crimes will be closely watched, and the outcome of the case may have far-reaching consequences for those involved.
Key points
- The case involves allegations of money laundering, influence peddling, and corruption.
- An international rogatory commission has been launched to coordinate investigations between Mauritian and Malagasy authorities.
- The case has implicated several high-profile individuals, including former FCC commissioner Junaid Fakim.
