Former Immigration Controller Mohamed Shamaan Waheed has been released from custody following an order by the Criminal Court.

The court approved his release after determining that statements from key witnesses had already been recorded and that the risk of influencing evidence had diminished. Shamaan was freed after the State requested his release, on the condition that his passport be withheld.

Shamaan was arrested on suspicion of abusing his position to obtain money from expatriates. He was taken into custody prior to being dismissed from his post. During a search of his residence, authorities recovered MVR 257,475 and USD 10,000 in cash, which investigators allege was obtained from expatriate workers.

Police said the investigation relates to an Immigration operation carried out on 12 March 2025 at a residence in Maafannu, where expatriates were living without proper documentation. Investigators believe Shamaan had prior knowledge of the operation.

According to police, the first individuals to arrive at the scene were three employees from the Controller’s Bureau, Planning and Media, who were not authorised to conduct such operations. Seven expatriate workers were detained, their residence searched, and a large sum of money was seized and later transferred to the Immigration Office. Investigations into the case are ongoing.