The Anti-Corruption Commission (ACC) has launched an investigation into a corruption case involving Ahmed Shamah Rasheed, who was recently dismissed as Managing Director of State Electric Company Limited (STELCO).

The ACC confirmed that a case concerning Shamah has been submitted to the commission, though details of the allegation have not been disclosed. The Privatization and Corporatization Board (PCB), which dismissed Shamah from his roles as Managing Director and board member of STELCO, has also not stated the reason for his removal.

Following Shamah’s dismissal, STELCO’s management was temporarily handed over to Deputy Managing Director Ali Azwar. Shortly after Azwar assumed control, STELCO’s Head of Procurement and General Manager, Azhad Rameez, was removed from his responsibilities, though he remains employed by the company.

The developments come amid the circulation of an audio clip on social media in which a man claiming to be Shamah is heard discussing the pursuit of undue benefits through STELCO and referring to Azhad’s role in the company.

Shamah previously served as Chief Executive Officer of the state-owned Maldives Industrial Fisheries Company (MIFCO) and has also held the position of State Minister at the Ministry of Fisheries. Investigations into the case are ongoing.