The Indian citizen arrested on money laundering charges was found with USD 100,000 in his possession, Mihaaru News has reported.
The Indian citizen arrested on money laundering charges was found with USD 100,000 in his possession, Mihaaru News has reported.
Abdul Ragub Nisthar Haleem Rahman was arrested on September 3 on money laundering charges. Police did not reveal the amount of funds he had on him when apprehended.
At the end of his initial five day remand, he was taken to Criminal Court yesterday, where Judge Ibrahim Zihunee ruled to place him in remand in custody for an additional 10 days.
Rahman's lawyer claimed in court that the USD 100,000 allegedly found in his possession are not related to money laundering as accused by the Police. As per the court order, the lawyer states that Rahman's phone has proof of how the money had been obtained. The court order cited the lawyer as saying that the way the funds were obtained would be revealed when Rahman's statement is taken for the investigation.
However, Police say that the funds were found concealed in Rahman's bag. They said that there were documents indicating that the funds had been handed over to him by a number of individuals, but there were concerns arisen when his travel history was considered.
Police have said that Rahman is a frequent visitor to the Maldives. Usually, he leaves the country the day after he arrives, they said. Police also stated in court that they discovered two passports in his name.
"In addition to being accused of major criminal offences, he has not so far clarified to police how he came across these funds. There is also suspicious activity observed in his travel history. Hence, the court decides to place him in further remand in custody," the court order said.
While the remand period was increased, the Judge also instructed Police to take statements and conduct further investigations regarding the funds during the set period of time.
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