Criminal Court concludes Thimarafushi terrorism trial hearings

The Criminal Court has concluded hearings in the trial of eight individuals accused of promoting extremist ideologies and planning acts of terrorism in Th. Thimarafushi.

The defendants were arrested in 2021 following a counter-terrorism operation. The individuals charged are:

According to the Prosecutor General’s Office Maldives, the individuals were arrested for supporting and encouraging the activities of terrorist organisations.

The charges include attempting to manufacture and detonate an improvised explosive device, with Thimarafushi School laboratory identified as the intended target, as well as endangering national security.

Other allegations include conducting training activities on uninhabited islands, spreading extremist views through private gatherings and online sessions, forming separate prayer groups, and providing financial support to individuals linked to such organisations.

The charges filed include planning and inciting acts of terrorism, possession of material supporting a terrorist organisation, attempting to travel to a conflict zone, learning tactics for attacks, and obstruction of justice.

The Prosecutor General’s Office said both the prosecution and defence presented closing arguments during hearings which concluded on Wednesday.

Under the law, the court is required to deliver a verdict by the 8th of next month.

The defendants have remained in custody throughout the trial. Family members have previously raised concerns regarding the duration of the proceedings.