The Maldives Police Service has launched an investigation into the alleged embezzlement of football club subsidies by executives of the Football Association of Maldives (FAM) and companies affiliated with them.

According to police, the investigation is part of a broader inquiry into allegations of misuse of external aid funds and money laundering involving the FAM. Authorities confirmed that funds intended for football clubs were diverted into personal accounts belonging to FAM executives and related companies.

The investigation includes scrutiny of former FAM President Bassam Adeel Jaleel, a company he owns, as well as companies owned by other former officials of the association.

In 2021, Bassam allegedly embezzled USD 1 million from a FIFA loan totalling USD 1.9 million, intended to support local clubs during the COVID-19 pandemic. He reportedly used over MVR 3 million of FAM funds to purchase two apartments at Amin Avenue, which he has been ordered to return.

The case has raised serious concerns about financial oversight and governance within national sports institutions.