Yameen's death: Two remanded, case to be reviewed once more

The High Court has overturned the life sentences of two individuals previously convicted in connection with the murder of blogger Yameen Rasheed.

The court also ordered a review of the cases against two other individuals, whose involvement in the crime was not conclusively proven. The High Court’s decision mandates that these cases be reconsidered in accordance with the legal proceedings.

In the case of Yameen, who was attacked and killed with sharp objects in the staircase of his home in April 2017, six individuals have been charged in the Criminal Court.

The prosecution has named Ismail Haisham Rasheed (H. Annaarumaage), Ahmed Zihan Ismail (Hulhumalé 11399), Mohamed Dhifran (GDh. Gadhdhoo, Sindhubaadhooge), Hassan Shifaz (M. Kudheheege), Ismail Rasheed (M. Thaif), and Hussain Ziyad (M. Kolhufushi East) in connection with the case.

The crime was proven against Haisham and Zihan in January 2022 in Criminal Court. Even though they were sentenced to life in prison, the crime could not be proven against the others, with them being acquitted.

Ismail Rasheed and Mohamed Dhifran's acquittals were appealed at High Court by the prosecution, with the prosecution appealing Haisham and Zihan's prison sentences at High Court as well.

Three judge benches unanimously made the sentence to void Haisham and Zihan's prison sentences after the High Court reviewed the case, with the case being sent to Criminal Court to be reviewed again. The High Court also ordered the cases of Ismail Rasheed and Mohamed Dhifran's to be reviewed once more.

The sentence stated that when the case is being reviewed by lower courts to make a decision once more regarding the testimony of a secret witness.

During today's hearing, the prosecution requested that Ismail Haisham Rasheed and Ahmed Zihan Ismail be held in remand, noting that they would be released from prison if their sentences were voided.

However, the judges initially indicated that they would be unable to grant the request following deliberation.

But, sources have told Mihaaru News that the Criminal Court has ordered they be held in remand.

Maldives Journalist Association (MJA) has also expressed concerns regarding the decision to void the sentences of said individuals from the High Court. MJA stated that freeing those after a retrial had been ordered sends a negative message and undermines the value of journalists’ lives, describing the decision as an obstacle to justice.

High Court jdges Hassan Shafeeu, Fathimath Faruheeza and Abdul Maniu Hussain presided over the case.