The state has appealed to the High Court the Criminal Court's ruling that a cheque for USD 1 million (more than MVR 15 million) involved in the case of former Football Association of Maldives (FAM) President Bassam Adeel Jaleel was a currency exchange transaction.
The state had alleged that Bassam, who is currently serving a 32-year prison sentence for embezzlement of FAM funds and money laundering, used FAM's money to pay for the purchase of an apartment from Amin Avenue in Hulhumalé.
However, the Criminal Court ruled in the case last January that the USD 1 million cheque included in the transaction was a currency purchase agreement between FAM and Amin Construction company. The court also ruled that the charges against Amin Construction in the matter were not proven.
In a statement issued today, the Prosecutor General’s (PG) Office said they believe the court’s decision to categorize the money as a currency exchange transaction was made after weighing evidence in a manner contrary to legal principles. Therefore, the statement noted that the decision has been appealed in the High Court.
According to the statement, the request to the High Court is to remand the case back for a new decision regarding the USD 1 million cheque. The statement also noted that although this specific issue is being appealed, it will not affect the existing convictions already proven against Bassam.
While this decision was appealed, the state had previously appealed the case in which Amin Construction was found not guilty. Furthermore, Bassam has also appealed the prison sentences imposed upon him.
Bassam, who is serving time for embezzlement of various FAM funds and money laundering, was moved to house arrest yesterday in consideration of health reasons. However, he was taken back to prison again last night.
