President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih declared that Abdulla Ali Manik, arrested in relation to the terror attack on May 6, was previously released due to information stating his contributions will be beneficial to society.
President Solih's declaration was made following Dhiyares' inquiry regarding his decision. Abdulla Ali Manik, described as a religious extremist, was arrested during the police investigation into the May 6 attack. Earlier, he was freed after initially facing a prison sentence of ten years, which was reduced to three days.
The President claimed that although acts of terrorism cannot be forgiven, the punishment can be lenient. Abdullah Ali had eight months until the end of his sentence, he said.
"I have not forgiven a crime of terrorism, only provided lenience".
President Solih divulged that according to Maldives Correctional Service, Abdulla Ali is rehabilitated, and ready to re-enter and contribute to society.
"Corrections said that Abdulla Ali Manik was rehabilitated and ready to be reintegrated in society. He has multiple children under the age of 17, and they believed he will make a great number of contributions to the community", said the president.
As per President Solih, his sentence was reduced to three months considering the information from the correctional service. However, his sentence was reduced to three days.
When Abdulla Ali was arrested for his involvement in the attack on former President Nasheed, police claimed that he was in charge of recruitment into extremism.