Adeeb’s 2 hearings on Saturday to be closed for “national security reasons”

Criminal Court has ordered for hearings in two cases against former Vice President Ahmed Adeeb Abdul Gafoor – scheduled for Saturday – to be held behind closed doors.

Lawyers are to submit their summary statement in terrorism charge against Adeeb for the pistols and explosives he allegedly carried in his apartments, and the Maldives Marketing and Public Relations Corporation (MMPRC) embezzlement scandal that he, former MMPRC Managing Director Abdulla Ziyath, and businessman Hamid Ismail (M. Shuramanzil) are embroiled in.

“The two hearings today are to be closed due to national security reasons,” said Ahmed Mohamed Manik, Information Officer for Criminal Court.

Three anonymous witnesses have testified that Adeeb carried pistols and explosives in his apartment. Two of whom, who said that they saw Adeeb carrying the weapons in his apartment in G. Humashi, and one who said he saw Adeeb with weapons in his apartment in G. Humashi, and his apartment in Rehendi Residence.

The MMPRC embezzlement scandal involves USD 5 million in acquisition cost paid by Kureddhoo Holdings to MMPRC for Lh. Maabinhuraa.

Abdulla Ziyath stands accused of embezzling the money, while Adeeb and Hamid stand accused of being accessories to the crime.

(From L-R) Hamid, Adeeb and Ziyath. - Combined Sun file photos

Witness testimony has been heard by court in the case.

Another high-profile hearing scheduled for Saturday – in the case of former Prosecutor General Muhuthaaz Muhsin and Chief Magistrate of A. Dh. Maamingili Court, Ahmed Nihan being accused of preparing a bogus court order for President Abdulla Yameen Abdul Gayoom’s arrest – will be open to public.