Former Immigration Controller Mohamed Shamman has been sentenced to 25 years in prison after being found guilty of money laundering, participating in the theft of money from an expatriate, and abusing his official position.
The Criminal Court found Shamman guilty on all three charges beyond a reasonable doubt.
He was sentenced to 15 years in prison for money laundering, eight years for participating in the theft, and two years for misuse of official authority. After accounting for time already served, the total sentence amounts to 24 years, 2 months and 20 days in prison.
The court also fined him MVR 500,000 and ordered him to repay MVR 500,000 to the expatriate involved in the case within three months. In addition, the court ordered the recovery of MVR 400,000 seized from his residence.
According to the prosecution, more than MVR 500,000 was taken from an expatriate who had been taken into Immigration custody, with part of the money later found at Shamman’s home.
Before sentencing, Shamman maintained that the case was politically motivated. He accused Minister of Homeland Security and Technology Ali Ihusan and Attorney General Ahmed Usham of being involved in efforts to frame him. He also claimed President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu was aware of corruption allegations he had raised.
Shamman further alleged that individuals who testified against him had received lenient treatment from the state.
The former Immigration chief requested a lighter sentence, including house arrest or a financial penalty. However, the court imposed the prison sentence sought by the prosecution.
