‘Marvin was friendly with good temperament’: Witness

A defence witness testified in court today that Marvin Vargas, accused of murdering his wife Mary Grace, was a friendly and kind person well regarded within the Filipino community in Maldives.

Marvin, a nurse at IGMH, is charged with intentional homicide in the killing of Philippine nurse Mary Grace. Haleemath Lamha, who is accused of having an affair with Marvin, is charged with involvement in the murder. The two are being tried separately.

Marvin’s trial resumed at the Criminal Court to hear testimony from a defence witness presented to establish his “good character.” The witness, a Filipino national living in Maldives, told the court he knew Marvin through community activities and social gatherings, including weekend basketball games.

Although not personally close to Marvin, the witness said he was familiar with his temperament and described him as friendly, kind and helpful. He said Marvin often assisted members of Filipino community, especially when someone was admitted to hospital, and would relay information to others.

The witness said he had no knowledge of Marvin’s personal life. The prosecution did not question the witness.

Marvin’s defence has submitted five witnesses, but four have yet to appear in court despite being summoned. Defence counsel said attempts to contact the remaining witnesses through Marvin’s mother and friends were unsuccessful. All four are Filipino nationals residing in Maldives.

Another hearing has been scheduled later this week to determine whether the remaining witnesses can be produced. The defence said it has no objection to proceeding without their testimony if they fail to appear.

Marvin is accused of killing Mary Grace in October 2021 by attacking her head and neck and strangling her. He reportedly took her to IGMH and claimed she had committed suicide. Police later said examinations of her body and the alleged scene raised questions.

Marvin was arrested first, followed by Lamha, who worked as a nurse in the hospital’s ER. Prosecutors allege Mary was killed due to a relationship between Marvin and Lamha.

Lamha faces charges of participating in the murder, carrying out an act requiring permission without authorization, and unauthorized possession of another person’s property.