FIFA auditors in Maldives to probe FAM graft allegations

A team of FIFA auditors has arrived in Maldives to explore the Football Association of Maldives (FAM)'s money laundering investigations launched by the police on order of the Prosecutor General Hussein Shameem.

The auditors are also looking into the FAM's financial accounts. They will also meet with the biggest sports clubs in the country.

The prosecutor general ordered the police to investigate serious allegations related to the FAM last October. The hard disks of the computers used in the association were also taken into custody.

Police allege that the FAM has misused funds received from abroad. There are also allegations against FAM President Bissam Adil Jaleel.

FIFA auditors also want information on the police investigation.

“They are meeting with many people involved in football,” an FAM insider said on condition of anonymity.

The FAM is in very big trouble. Therefore, Bassam will not contest the upcoming elections, but he is exerting his influence on the election, according to anti-Bassam campaigners.

Former national team forward and current Mahibadhoo MP Ahmed Thorig (Tom) and Mufawiz Hashim (Mufa), who represents the Eagles on the FAM exco, are contesting the election.

Both have been given the approval of Valencia and the FAM has asked for the AFC’s advice on the matter.

Some allege that Bassam is behind the scenes trying to sabotage Thorig's candidacy. According to FAM rules, a candidate must have the approval of at least three first division clubs. Thorig is contesting with the support of Valencia, Maziya and TC. In addition to the other five teams, Mufawiz has also been given Valencia's approval, he said.

Valencia sent a letter to the FAM saying the club's approval was only for Thorig. If there is a document giving consent to Mufawiz, it is fake, the letter said.