Mohamed Ageel, the former head of the Finance Department at the Football Association of Maldives (FAM), has been arrested in Bangkok, Thailand, in connection with the long-running FAM corruption scandal.
Authorities say Ageel was taken into custody about a week ago after allegedly living in hiding in the Thai capital. While officials have not released detailed information about the arrest, the development marks a major step in a case that has drawn national attention for years.
Allegations Linked to Misuse of FIFA Funds
Ageel is accused of playing a key role in laundering money that was originally allocated to FAM by FIFA. Investigators allege that these funds were diverted from their intended purpose and used for personal gain instead of football development.
According to court records, Ageel has been charged with aiding money laundering by assisting former FAM President Bassam Adeel Jaleel in purchasing apartments at Amin Avenue using misappropriated funds. Prosecutors argue that Ageel’s financial expertise enabled the transactions to proceed while concealing the true source of the money.
Court Proceedings Halted After Absence
Legal proceedings against Ageel were previously stalled after he failed to appear in court. His absence led to the suspension of hearings, raising questions about his whereabouts at the time.
During a court hearing in November 2025, the presiding judge ordered Maldivian police to locate and arrest Ageel and ensure his appearance before the court. That order now appears to have been carried out following his arrest in Thailand.
Connection to Bassam Adeel Jaleel’s Conviction
The case against Ageel is closely tied to that of Bassam Adeel Jaleel, the former FAM president who was convicted of corruption and money laundering. Bassam is currently serving a 23-year prison sentence, one of the harshest penalties imposed in a high-profile corruption case involving Maldivian sports administration.
Prosecutors have consistently maintained that the misuse of FIFA funds involved multiple individuals working together, rather than a single actor. Ageel’s arrest is expected to strengthen the ongoing legal process and may reopen stalled proceedings.
With Ageel now in custody, authorities are expected to move toward resuming court hearings. Questions remain about extradition procedures, timelines, and whether further arrests could follow as the case progresses.
