Former Controller General of Immigration Mohamed Shammaan Waheed was dismissed from his post on March 20, 2025, following a police investigation into allegations that immigration officials were accepting bribes and exploiting migrant workers.

The case surfaced after immigration officials raided the residence of a Bangladeshi migrant worker, allegedly under Shammaan’s direct orders, and arrested him with more than MVR 500,000 in cash. However, police later found that the officials involved were not authorized to conduct such operations.

According to police, a few hours after the worker’s arrest, Shammaan ordered his release. The officials then allegedly took the MVR 500,000 to Shammaan’s residence. In connection with this, three immigration officials were arrested for their involvement in the operation.

On March 21, 2025, police searched Shammaan’s residence and discovered the money taken from the migrant worker. That same day, Shammaan was summoned to the police for questioning. Reports suggest that he was preparing to hold a press briefing when he was arrested just minutes after leaving the police station, under a court order.

Shammaan and the arrested immigration officials now face accusations of bribery, abuse of power, and exploiting migrant workers. Police have yet to provide further details as the investigation continues.