Mauritius Tourism Rocked by Suspension of Key Fraud Whistleblower

The suspension of Bala Boodhun, former Officer-in-Charge of the Mauritius Tourism Promotion Authority (MTPA), has sparked unrest within the Ministry of Tourism, with allegations of internal discord and attempts to silence a key whistleblower.

Boodhun, a financial analyst at the MTPA, was suspended on Wednesday, 6 August, for disciplinary reasons. However, the decision has reportedly caused friction, with Tourism Minister Richard Duval said to have reservations about how the suspension was handled.

The case is particularly sensitive as Boodhun is the whistleblower in a high-profile investigation involving former MTPA director Arvin Bundhun. He submitted eight complaints to the Financial Crimes Commission (FCC) regarding suspected credit card misuse during Bundhun’s tenure—allegations still under review.

Fake CVs at Tourism Office

Now, fresh revelations suggest Boodhun’s suspension came just as he was preparing to expose alleged forged documents and fake CVs within the MTPA. The move, allegedly orchestrated unilaterally by current director Avinash Teelock, has raised suspicions of an attempt to suppress a crucial witness in ongoing corruption probes.

The escalating scandal, described as “explosive” in government circles, was reportedly discussed in Friday’s Cabinet meeting, with ministers distancing themselves from Teelock’s decision.

The MTPA board is expected to convene on Monday, 11 August, to review the suspension—with speculation mounting that Teelock himself could face removal.

Tensions within the MTPA are running high, with staff criticising the leadership’s reluctance to investigate questionable expenditures, including Rs 400 million spent on a controversial promotional deal with Liverpool Football Club and allegedly opaque advertising campaigns.

When contacted by Radio Plus, Teelock reportedly declined to comment, citing instructions not to speak publicly on the matter.

Sources: Defi Media, Top FM