Criminal Court releases Mahloof from house arrest

Criminal Court has ordered the unconditional release of South Galolhu MP Ahmed Mahloof from house arrest.

Mahloof was ordered to house arrest pending the outcome of his terrorism trial on April 4. He was charged with conspiracy to carry out an act of terrorism and ordered to house arrest citing risk he may attempt to influence witnesses and destroy evidence.

The Criminal Court released Mahloof last Tuesday night following a petition to review his detention.

Speaking at the hearing held to review Mahloof’s detention, Assistant Prosecutor General Hussain Nashid said the lawmaker made no attempt to influence evidence or destroy evidence during his house arrest, and that the Prosecutor General’s Office therefore had no objection to his release.

The judge presiding over the review, Judge Ibrahim Ali ordered Mahloof’s release, without any conditions.

Mahloof’s attorneys have also petitioned to dismiss the charge against the lawmaker for participation in a demonstration outside Maafushi Prison on February 2, citing proper procedure wasn’t followed.

Judge Ibrahim Ali announced a decision regarding the petition will be made on Thursday.

A number of prominent figures have been released from detention by the court this week, including the son-in-law of former Maldivian President Maumoon Abdul Gayoom – Mohamed Nadheem, North Machangolhi MP Abdulla Sinan, former Commissioner of Police Ahmed Areef, and Dhangethi MP Ilhaam Ahmed.