Criminal Court sentences Shifau to 109 years, fines him MVR 7 million

The Criminal Court on Thursday sentenced Hussain Shifau to 109 years in prison and fined him MVR 7 million for sending fake telegraphic transfers to companies abroad.  

It is believed to be the longest prison sentence ever imposed on a person in Maldives.  

The Prosecutor General’s Office filed 23 charges against Shifau, including fraud and money laundering. Criminal Court Judge Ali Nadeem handed down the combined sentences, which total 109 years.  

Although Shifau was sentenced to 109 years in prison, the court previously ruled that the state could not order forfeiture of the USD 123,000 he laundered.  

Shifau was also wanted in 2021 for using fake telegraphic transfers. He was arrested on April 28, 2023, in connection with the case. However, after being released, he fled the country.  

Interpol later issued a red notice for him. His passport was confiscated upon his return to Maldives after fleeing.  

Shifau was previously appointed as senior political director at the Ministry of Agriculture and Animal Welfare but was later dismissed. Senior Presidential Spokesperson Heena Waleed confirmed the dismissal to Sun, though no reason was provided.