Former Immigration Controller Arrested as Police Investigate Alleged Misconduct

MV+ News Desk | March 22, 2025
Photo: Maldives Immigration

Mohamed Shamman Waheed, who was dismissed as Immigration Controller, was arrested by police yesterday in connection with an ongoing investigation into alleged misconduct within the Maldives Immigration Department.

The Maldives Police Service is investigating claims that immigration officers, including Shamman, used their positions for financial gain from foreign nationals. In a press release issued last evening, police confirmed Shamman’s arrest and stated that individuals from various sections of Immigration were involved in the case. However, the investigation does not include employees from the task force and risk management section.

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According to police findings, the case involves immigration employees searching a residence occupied by foreigners and detaining several individuals. A total of MVR 530,000 was reportedly taken into Immigration custody along with the detained individuals. One foreign national was later released at night under Shamman’s orders. Police allege that immigration employees subsequently met with the released foreigner on the street and took the money to Shamman’s residence.

Police Seize Over MVR 400,000 from Former Immigration Chief’s Apartment

As part of the investigation, police conducted a search of Shamman’s apartment yesterday, where they seized a significant amount of cash in local and foreign currency, amounting to between MVR 400,000 and MVR 500,000. The recovered cash included over MVR 200,000, USD 10,000 (MVR 154,200), 11,000 Malaysian ringgit, and other foreign currencies. Police suspect the money is linked to operations targeting undocumented foreigners.

Investigation Underway into Alleged Misconduct by Immigration Officials

Three individuals arrested in a separate police operation are also believed to be connected to the case. The investigation is ongoing, and police have indicated that further details will be provided as it progresses. Attempts to contact Shamman for comment have been unsuccessful, as his phone remains switched off.

Ahmed Faseeh Appointed as New Immigration Chief

Meanwhile, President Mohamed Muizzu appointed former Police Commissioner Ahmed Faseeh as the new Controller General of Immigration following Shamman’s dismissal. The appointment, announced by Presidential Spokesperson Heena Waleed at 3:35 am on Friday, was made at the level of state minister.

Ahmed Faseeh previously served in the police force for over 20 years and held the position of Police Commissioner during the administration of former President Mohamed Nasheed. He retired following the events of 7 February 2012 and later served as a member of the Police Board under former President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih. Faseeh has also completed the FBI General Course of Instruction at the FBI National Academy, US Department of Justice, in Quantico, Virginia.

The government has not provided a reason for Shamman’s removal. However, the police have confirmed an investigation into allegations that some immigration officers exploited their positions for personal financial gain. Further details on the investigation have not been disclosed.

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