The Prosecutor General has filed charges today against Mr. Bassam Adeel Jaleel, the former President of Football Association of Maldives (FAM), over corruption and financial misconduct. 

These charges arise from an extensive investigation into the misuse of FAM funds, including embezzlement and money laundering activities. 

Charges Filed:

1. Theft by Failing to Deliver Funds Entrusted - Under Section 215 of the Penal Code of Maldives.

Mr. Bassam Adeel Jaleel is accused of embezzling USD 1.2 million of funds entrusted to FAM by FIFA. These funds, intended for football development, were misappropriated and used for his personal benefit under his leadership.

2. Money Laundering - Under Section 53 of the Prevention of Money Laundering and Financing of Terrorism Act.

Investigations revealed that FAM funds were unlawfully funneled to finance the purchase of a luxurious penthouse in Amin Avenue, Hulhumalé, valued at MVR 25 million.

Requests for Asset Recovery and Confiscation:

In light of these findings, the Prosecutor General has made the following requests to the court:

1. Recovery of the misappropriated sum of USD 1.2 million from Mr. Bassam Adeel Jaleel.

2. Confiscation of the aforementioned MVR 25 million penthouse to the state.

Ongoing Investigation and Previous Charges:

The case remains under active investigation. The Prosecutor General’s Office is closely examining additional evidence, and Mr. Bassam Adeel Jaleel, along with other employees of FAM, may face further charges as the inquiry progresses.

Mr. Bassam Adeel Jaleel was previously charged with similar offenses on January 21, 2024, for corruption and financial misconduct during his tenure at FAM. That case is currently ongoing in court.

These charges and recovery efforts underscore our zero-tolerance policy towards corruption and misuse of power in public institutions. We remain committed to holding individuals accountable and ensuring that such unethical practices have no place in the Maldives’ governance or institutions.