Anas’ murder: Verdict to be delivered after seven years

The presiding judge in the case of the brutal murder of Mohamed Anas, a young man from R. Meedhoo, has stated that the verdict in the case will be delivered within the next 30 days.

Anas fled into the Litus Service Center on the night of July 31, 2017 after he was chased by eight people on four motorcycles armed with sharp-edged weapons. The assailants chased him into the center, and stabbed him to death. He sustained 24 stab wounds in the attack, as per medical examiners.

Seven adults and one minor were charged in connection to the stabbing. The seven adults, in this regard, are; Ahmed Zayan, from Asurumaage, Lh. Kurendhoo; Usman Shareef from M. Dhimishgu; Afrah Abdul Razzaq from M. Lonumidhilige; Junaih Abdullah from Nannaarige, L. Gan; Hassan Mahfooz from Vestonvilla, S. Feydhoo; Simah Moosa, Dhafthar 1746 and Mohamed Saaz, from Gulfaamge, Th. Kinbidhoo.

The prosecution delivered closing statements in a hearing held on the case at the Criminal Court on Thursday during which they detailed how the events unfolded and related to those who have been charged. They also emphasized adequate evidence had been submitted to the court in order to prove the seven individuals guilty beyond reasonable doubt.

The respective lawyers representing the seven individuals also delivered their closing statements during which they reiterated their clients had no part in the stabbing.

Following the closing statements, Judge Ali Nadheem, who was presiding over the case, said the verdict will be slated within the next 30 days if no further matters needed clarification.

Ahmed Zayan, Afrah Abdul Razzaq and Usman Shareef were charged with murder with intent using s sharp-edged weapon in connection to the case.

The remaining defendants – Mohamed Saaz, Junaih Abdulla, Hassan Mahfooz and Simah Moosa – allegedly drove the motorcycles – and have been charged as accomplices to murder with intent using a sharp-edged weapon.

Anas was attacked inside Litus Service Center after he fled there to escape his pursuers.

Dr. Ibrahim Mubeen, who attended to Anas upon being brought to ADF Hospital, testified he had already been dead on arrival. While he sustained 24 stab wounds – Dr. Mubeen said the injuries were severe enough to cause instant death.

The identity of the minor, who was 17 years old at the time of the stabbing, has not been disclosed while the minor’s trial was held separately. Juvenile Court found the minor not guilty in the case on January 3, 2021 – a ruling which was overturned by the High Court to find the minor guilty on October 11, 2022.