Ex-Police Chief’s Son Faces Sentencing Hearing for Rs 80 Million Theft from Bramer

The legal proceedings against Chandra Dip and three associates entered a critical phase on Tuesday, 20 January, as the Financial Crimes Division of the Intermediate Court commenced pre-sentencing hearings regarding a massive Rs 80 million fraud.

Dip, the son of former Police Commissioner Anil Kumar Dip, appeared before Magistrate Abdool Rahim Tajoodeen alongside co-defendants Darmendra Mulloo, Sheik Jany, and Muhammad Maulaboksh.

The group previously entered guilty pleas in April 2025 for multiple counts of money laundering under the Financial Intelligence and Anti-Money Laundering Act (FIAMLA).

The Mechanics of the Fraud

The court heard details of the 2011 heist targeting the now-defunct Bramer Banking Corporation Limited.

The scheme involved the illicit transfer of funds from bank clients into the accounts of shell companies.

During Tuesday’s hearing, Darmendra Mulloo addressed the court, claiming he acted under duress.

Mulloo alleged he was pressured by Younousse Kotoaroo, a former Bramer Bank executive who is being tried separately. Mulloo admitted to:

• Receiving approximately Rs 10,000,000 directly into his personal account.
• Funneling the remaining balance into various front companies.

The “Mastermind” and Presidential Pardon

The case has drawn significant public interest due to the profile of Chandra Prakashsing Dip, described during the trial as the “brain” behind the operation.

Dip’s legal history has been a subject of previous controversy. On 29 December 2023, while his father served as Police Commissioner, Dip received a presidential pardon.

A one-year prison sentence issued in 2018 for a separate fraud case involving the company Diadeis Maurice was commuted to a fine of Rs 100,000.

Next Steps

The pre-sentencing phase allows the defendants to present mitigating circumstances before the court finalises their penalties.

While Kotoaroo continues to maintain his innocence in a separate trial for electronic fraud and money laundering, the case against Dip and his three accomplices is nearing its conclusion.

The proceedings are scheduled to resume on 11 February, when Chandra Dip is expected to address the court personally.

Source: Le Mauricien