Suspicions of Influence Peddling at Air Mauritius: Discounted Audi Q5: Senior Manager Anba Manikham Arrested
Anba Manikham, the Senior Manager of Ground Services Worldwide at Air Mauritius, and his partner Kiran Balgobin are under investigation by the Financial Crimes Commission (FCC) for a suspicious transaction involving an Audi Q5 sedan. The couple is accused of benefiting from preferential treatment, resulting in a significant financial gain.
The investigation revolves around the sale of the Audi Q5, valued at Rs 750,000, which Kiran Balgobin allegedly acquired through intervention from her partner. Authorities obtained documentary evidence detailing the transaction's terms and the car's repurchase by Balgobin. This luxury vehicle was reportedly used to pick up privileged passengers upon their arrival and transport them to the Jet Prime Lounge.
According to FCC information, Manikham, who was previously the Passenger Service Manager, allegedly intervened with the Procurement department to facilitate the transaction for Kiran Balgobin. The car, appraised at Rs 750,000, was sold to her for just Rs 200,000. Once in her possession, it was resold to a third party for Rs 750,000, generating a profit of nearly Rs 550,000.
Multiple Accusations
After several hours of questioning, with attorney Sailesh Seebaruth present, Anba Manikham was arrested by the FCC. He spent the night in custody and will face charges of "Public Official Using Office For Gratification" at the Port-Louis court this Thursday. Kiran Balgobin was also arrested but allowed to return home after her questioning; however, she will appear in court on Thursday to face a preliminary charge of money laundering.
Under CEO Ken Arian's leadership at Airports Holdings in Plaisance, Manikham quickly rose through the ranks. In 2021, he transitioned from Passenger Services Manager in Ground Operations to Senior Manager of Cabin Crew.
In March 2024, upon Charles Cartier's arrival, Manikham faced disciplinary action: he was immediately suspended and reassigned from his role as Senior Manager of Cabin Operations and Inflight Services to the Ground Services Worldwide department due to allegations of harassment and favoritism.
Among the numerous accusations against him is a claim of preferential treatment granted to Kiran Balgobin regarding her return to work from maternity leave in March 2024.
Manikham began his career at MK in the 1990s as a Check-in Officer before moving to the Cabin Crew department. In 2009, he was promoted to Duty Manager – Ground Operations (Grade B) under Manoj Ujodha and later, with Ken Arian's arrival, to Senior Manager – Cabin Operations (Grade A) in the Cabin Crew department.
