A terrorism trial involving eight individuals accused of plotting attacks in the Maldives in connection with the Islamic State (IS) has reached its final stage, five years after charges were first filed.
The prosecution alleges that the eight defendants operated a terrorist cell based in Thaa Thimarafushi.
The group was charged following allegations of promoting and supporting terrorist organizations under the guise of religious advocacy, and attempting to justify the actions of such groups.
According to the prosecution, the defendants planned to carry out acts of terrorism in the Maldives under instructions from IS. They are accused of preparing an Improvised Explosive Device (IED) with the intent to detonate it at various locations across the country. Police previously revealed that one of the primary targets was the laboratory at the Thimarafushi School.
The eight defendants are:
- Ali Muneez (Kenereege, Thaa Thimarafushi)
- Mohamed Aasir (Asurumaage, Thaa Thimarafushi)
- Abdulla Shareef (Fehividhuvaruge, Thaa Thimarafushi)
- Ahsan Mohamed (Asrafeevilla, Thaa Thimarafushi)
- Abdulla Imad (Beach House, Raa Maduvvari)
- Shamah Shareef (Saima, Thaa Thimarafushi)
- Ibrahim Looth (Rosemead, Noonu Kudafari)
- Ali Arham Mohamed (Raa Kandholhudhoo)
The case was submitted to the court on February 8, 2021, and the final hearings concluded yesterday. During the session, both the prosecution and the defense presented their closing arguments and delivered their final statements.
Under the Criminal Procedure Act, a verdict must be delivered within 30 days of the conclusion of closing arguments. This means the court is expected to issue a ruling by May 8.
The charges against the group include conspiring to commit an act of terrorism, inciting terrorism, possession of material indicating support for a terrorist organization, attempting to join a foreign conflict, learning terrorist tactics, and obstruction of justice.
Furthermore, the defendants are accused of preparing to threaten national security by conducting training exercises on uninhabited islands under the pretext of picnic trips. They are also alleged to have propagated extremist ideologies in Thimarafushi by conducting private classes in homes and holding online lectures.
The Prosecutor General’s (PG) Office stated that the cell encouraged followers to pray in separate congregations rather than behind government-appointed imams. They are also accused of providing financial assistance to individuals linked to extremist groups.
The defendants have remained in custody since their arrest. Due to the prolonged nature of their detention, their families have previously participated in "End Vaanuvaa" protests, calling for an end to indefinite pre-trial detention.
