Thursday
19th Dec 2024
Dhivehi Edition
Abdullah Ali Manik and Thasleem
The Criminal Court has extended the detention of Abdullah Ali Maniku and Mohamed Thasleem. Both Maniku and Thasleem are standing trial for their alleged involvement in the May 6 bombing which seriously injured Majlis Speaker Mohamed Nasheed.
A hearing regarding their detentions was held at the Criminal Court today. The State argued that their detention be extended due to the nature of the crime of which they are accused and as they may pose a threat to society.
Ali Maniku argued that although he had been arrested for his alleged involvement in the bombing, he was being charged for a different crime.
He argued that he had been kept in detention for five months unjustly, and he did not have the opportunity to meet with his wife and children. He requested the court to order a house-arrest, for the sake of his wife and children.
Thasleem had also requested to be placed under house arrest instead of remaining in custody, and he also requested to be represented by an attorney. The Court decided that he may designate an attorney within a duration not longer than 5 days.
Judge Ali Adam ordered both defendants to get legal representation within the allotted time. He said that he would make a decision regarding their remand based on their statements if they did not get legal representation within the given time.
The State is charging Maniku and Thasleem of supporting a terrorist organisation. Maniku had previously been serving a sentence for terrorism, but had gone free after being shown clemency by the State.