Suspected child abuser released over health condition rearrested

High Court, on Monday, has ordered the rearrest of a suspected child abuser who was released by a lower court citing a serious case of diabetes

Prosecutor General’s Office (PG Office) charged the suspect with engaging a sexual act with a minor whilst in a position of trust on November 16, 2023. At that time, the suspect had already been remanded in custody pending the outcome of their trial.  

However, the lower court, which is overseeing the case, ordered the suspect’s release on April 20^th.

The lower court’s order read that the suspect was being released as they suffer from a serious case of diabetes which requires them to follow a strict regular diet. It was also noted that the suspect has had previous cases of fainting due to diabetes.

The lower court’s order was appealed to the High Court.

All three judges who presided over the case unanimously overturned the lower court’s order on Monday, and in turn, has ordered the suspect’s custody in a remand jail. The appellate court has also ordered the lower court to decide whether the suspect needs to be remanded in custody pending the outcome of their trial within seven days.

The three judges who presides over case are Judge Hassan Shafeeu, who chaired the bench, alongside Judge Mohamed Shaneez Abulla and Judge Abdulla Maniu Hussain.

As the case involves the rights of the child, the suspect’s identity alongside the name of the lower court that reviewed the case remains sealed.