The Criminal Court has sentenced former Controller of Immigration Shamman Waheed to 25 years in prison after finding him guilty in a case involving the abuse of his official position to extort money from a foreign national.

Shamman faced three charges: robbery, abuse of official authority, and money laundering.

Speaking to reporters before entering the courtroom for the sentencing hearing on Tuesday, Shamman maintained that he had been framed.

The case stems from allegations that Shamman used his position as Controller of Immigration to unlawfully obtain money from a foreign national. The court's verdict follows months of investigation and legal proceedings.

Shamman was dismissed from his post on March 21, 2025, and arrested by police the following day. He was initially remanded in custody for 15 days before the court ordered him to remain detained pending the outcome of his trial on April 6.

He spent 278 days in custody before being released on December 25 last year.

Several other individuals, including immigration officers and a civilian, were also arrested in connection with the case.