The former head of finance at the Football Association of Maldives (FAM), Mohamed Ageel, has been charged with aiding and abetting money laundering. Ageel was arrested in Bangkok, Thailand.

Police said Ageel was detained by Thai authorities in connection with a visa violation case. They also confirmed that Thailand informed Maldivian authorities about an Interpol Red Notice issued for him. Efforts are underway to bring Ageel back to the Maldives.

Former FAM President Bassam Adeel Jaleel has also been charged with aiding and abetting money laundering. The charges relate to the purchase of a luxury apartment owned by Amin Construction.

According to police, Ageel is accused of preparing documents to falsely record a USD 1 million transfer made by Bassam to Ameen Construction as a legitimate dollar sale transaction. He is also accused of assisting Bassam in laundering money and acquiring an apartment on Ameen Avenue using FAM funds.

Ageel was unable to appear in court, leading to the cancellation of several hearings linked to the scandal involving funds sent by FIFA to FAM.