Marvin Vargas, held in remand while accused of murdering his wife Mary Grace, has converted to Islam, the Ministry of Islamic Affairs has informed the Criminal Court.
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.
In today's hearing in the case, Judge Muzammil Nasir announced that a letter had been received from the Islamic Ministry regarding Marvin. He said that the letter notifies the court that Marvin has converted to Islam, and changed his name to Yoosuf.
With this, the judge addressed Marvin with his new name, Yoosuf, during the rest of the hearing.
Marvin's lawyer asked the State what their stance is on Marvin's conversion to Islam. Prosecutor Ahmed Naufal responded that the matter would be discussed before a decision is made. He, however, noted that the State generally refers to a person by the name listed on official documents such as passports.
Naufal added that, following internal discussions, the State will clarify whether Marvin's conversion to Islam will have any bearing on the penalty he may face if convicted.
Today's hearing was held to deliver summary statements. However, the defence requested additional time citing inability to prepare due to not having received some documents. The judge granted extra time, but stated that even as is, sufficient time has been provided. The next hearing has been scheduled for March.
Although Marvin and Lamha's cases were previously heard separately, the trials are being held together now. Both Marvin and Lamha were present in court today.
Marvin is accused of killing Mary Grace in October 2021 by attacking her head and neck and strangling her. He reportedly took her body to IGMH and claimed she had committed suicide through hanging. 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 issues that arose through an illicit affair 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.
