Minister Denies Personal Motive Behind Arrest of Former Immigration Controller
Shamaan Waheed participates in a press briefing organised by the Ministry of Homeland Security | Photo: Maldives Immigration
The Minister of Homeland Security and Technology, Ali Ihusaan, has denied claims that the dismissal and subsequent arrest of former Controller of Immigration, Mohamed Shamman Waheed, were the result of a personal dispute. He stated that the matter relates solely to alleged criminal activities.
Shamman was removed from his position and taken into custody on 22 March on suspicion of bribery. He was initially remanded for 15 days, and earlier this month, the Criminal Court ordered that he remain in custody pending trial.
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Minister Ihusaan appeared before Parliament today, where he was questioned by South Henveiru MP Ahmed Shamheed regarding allegations circulating on social media. The allegations suggested that Shamman’s arrest was linked to a personal conflict between the two.
In response, the Minister said that policies had been implemented in cooperation with Shamman and described their professional relationship as effective. He emphasised that there had been no conflict in the work environment and that the arrest was based on allegations of unlawful conduct.
The Minister also reiterated the government’s commitment to upholding the rule of law, stating that no individual would be allowed to act above it. He added that state institutions were authorised to take appropriate action in such cases, and that the administration of President Dr Mohamed Muizzu would not offer special treatment to those who breach the law.
According to police, four other immigration officials have also been arrested in connection with the case. Authorities allege that the group abused their official positions to search a residence occupied by foreigners and detained several individuals.
Police further claim that MVR 530,000 was involved in the incident. One foreign national was reportedly released during the night on Shamman’s instruction. The individual is said to have handed over a sum of money, which was allegedly delivered to Shamman’s residence. A large amount of cash and several electronic items were subsequently seized from his home.
Meanwhile, two remand orders issued by the Criminal Court against Shamman have been appealed at the High Court. The court has accepted the appeal, and hearings are currently underway.
