Wednesday
24th Apr 2024
Dhivehi Edition
MALE', May 15, 2023 - The Maldives Police Service has initiated an extensive manhunt for Ibrahim Abdulla, known as "Gabbare", a prominent member of the Maldivian Democratic Party's (MDP) National Council, in connection with an attempted murder case involving MP Hassan Zareer.
Zareer, a fellow MDP member, was attacked in a café last month. He alleges that Gabbare was the mastermind behind the assault, a claim that has prompted significant concern within the highest ranks of the ruling party.
Gabbare, a 32-year-old resident of M. Nightvilla, is believed to be closely aligned with the top brass of the party. The case against him alleges the formation of a group armed with sharp-edged and dangerous weapons with the intent of killing MP Zareer.
The Serious and Organised Crime Department of Maldives Police Service is investigating the case, following a court warrant issued for Gabbare's arrest. Two people have already been apprehended in relation to the assault on MP Zareer.
"If anyone has any information about Gabbare, we encourage them to contact the Serious and Organised Crime Department at 9911099 or the police hotline number 3322111 to share the information," the police statement urged the public.
Gabbare's involvement in this high-profile case marks another chapter in his lengthy and contentious history with the law. His criminal record includes participation in armed assaults against rival gang members.
In 2007, at the age of 16, he confessed to the murder of Ali Ishan. However, due to a lack of sufficient evidence, he was acquitted in 2010 when the court ruled there wasn't enough to convict him of murder.
Despite his controversial past, Gabbare has managed to forge close relationships with MDP politicians, which eventually led to his ascension to the party's highest decision-making body.