Hearings have concluded in the money laundering case against former President of the Football Association of Maldives (FAM), Bassam Adeel Jaleel.

Bassam was charged with embezzlement and money laundering on 1 February 2019. The Prosecutor General’s Office (PG) alleges that funds sent by FIFA to FAM were misused during his tenure. According to the state, FIFA transferred USD 10,000 to an account at Bank of Ceylon in July and August 2018 for association purposes. Documents show that USD 10,004 was deposited on 26 August 2018, with USD 9,999 credited after bank charges.

The prosecution argued that instead of being deposited into FAM’s account, the money was diverted for Bassam’s personal use. They said evidence confirmed that as president, Bassam had the authority over financial decisions and used the funds improperly.

Bassam, however, claimed the amount was part of a dollar exchange transaction. His defence argued that the sum was small compared to what FAM owed him and insisted there was no evidence to suggest the funds were obtained through illegal means. His lawyer also stated there was no proof that Bassam had falsified documents to withdraw the money.

Presiding Judge Shafeeu announced that hearings in the case had now concluded and that a date for sentencing will be announced later.

In addition to this case, the state filed separate charges of money laundering and bribery against Bassam on 22 December 2019. Hearings in those cases have not yet started. He also faces allegations of misappropriating funds provided to FAM by individuals and of signing agreements involving large payments to Ameen Construction for two apartments.