FCC Busts Sophisticated Financial Network Operating Through 2 Linked Companies

A major investigation into a suspected money-laundering network has led to the seizure of a vehicle and significant assets. The Financial Crimes Commission (FCC) is probing a sophisticated operation allegedly orchestrated by prominent businessmen already known to authorities, including Wendip Appaya, Allysaheb Jagai, Steven Moothoocurpen, and Muzaffar Lallmamode.

At the heart of the alleged network is the company Seldiablo Co Ltd, which investigators believe served as a central hub for the illicit activities.

The firm’s director, Steven Moothoocurpen, is said to be a key figure in the operation. Authorities are also searching for several luxury vehicles and two American Staffordshire Terrier dogs linked to the case.

A vehicle with a “Seldiablo Custom” license plate, later renamed “Carfectionist,” was seized by the FCC on 5 August.

The Seldiablo Co Ltd Operation

Incorporated in 2024, Seldiablo Co Ltd is officially involved in a range of sectors, from e-commerce and web portals to digital marketing and investment.

However, the company, located at Desvaux Road, Petit-Verger, Saint-Pierre, drew the attention of the Mauritius Revenue Authority after it failed to declare any annual income for three consecutive years. The FCC has since taken over the investigation.

Detectives believe the company was used as a front to launder money, primarily through a scheme involving the leasing and rental of high-end cars.

The vehicles were allegedly rented out for private events at a rate of Rs 7,500 per day, allowing illicit funds to be funnelled back into the legitimate economy.

Additional Assets and Connections

The FCC is also monitoring Carfectionist Car Wash, which operates from the same address as Seldiablo Co Ltd.

The car wash, which lists its activities as wholesale of electronic and telecom equipment and vehicle maintenance, is directed by Aneth S., a close associate of the Moothoocurpen-Appaya group.

While not a primary target of the raids, Aneth S. is believed to have extensive knowledge of the network’s inner workings.

Another figure, Muzaffar Lallmamode, was arrested on 21 August as part of the money laundering investigation.

During the operation, a Ford Mustang, Rs 390,650, and USD 16,600 (approximately Rs 764,000) were seized. Lallmamode was later released on bail.

Coincidentally, he and Wendip Appaya were both seen attending the TomorrowIsland concert on 30 August, sparking further questions about their close ties.

Wendip Appaya’s swift accumulation of wealth is also under scrutiny. Appaya, who founded a successful industrial cleaning company in 2006, is being investigated regarding the rapid growth of his assets, particularly high-end vehicles, which do not align with his declared income.

A dozen vehicles and two Amstaff dogs are now being sought by the FCC.

The case of Seldiablo Co Ltd has highlighted potential systemic failures in the fight against money laundering, particularly the need for stricter controls within the car leasing sector. The FCC’s investigation is ongoing.

Source: l’Express