The Maldives Police have reversed their earlier decision to grant an extension on the deadline for the handover of two Hulhumale' apartments allegedly purchased using Football Association of Maldives (FAM) funds.
The extension was initially granted at the request of former FAM President Bassam Adeel Jaleel, who is accused of misusing FAM’s funds to buy these properties. Following public outcry over the extension, police have now ordered Bassam to hand over the flats by the end of tomorrow.
In a statement issued tonight, the police explained that Bassam was previously ordered to vacate the apartments on September 28, following an order from the Hulhumale' Magistrate Court. However, the following day, Bassam requested an extension, which was granted until the end of yesterday due to the considerations he raised.
The police now state that, after further review, no more extensions will be granted. They are continuing efforts to seize the apartments under legal provisions. If the properties are not surrendered by midnight tomorrow, the police will take necessary actions to repossess them.
Earlier today, the police faced widespread criticism after announcing the extension of the handover deadline until the end of the month.
Bassam is accused of using funds provided by FIFA, meant to help football clubs during the COVID-19 pandemic, to purchase the two apartments. The police have already forwarded the case to the Prosecutor General’s Office.
Charges have also been sought against Amin Construction, the seller of the apartments, as well as former FAM Finance Head Mohamed Ageel and FAM employee Hassan Waheed.
Police Approve Bassam’s Request to Delay Flat Handover Amid FAM Funds Misuse Case
The Maldives Police have granted an extension to former Football Association of Maldives (FAM) President Bassam Adeel Jaleel to hand over two apartments in Hulhumalé, which were allegedly purchased using misappropriated FAM funds.
