Verdict expected in a month as Shiau murder trial concludes

Hearings have concluded in the Criminal Court trial concerning the murder of 22-year-old Shiau Mohamed Saeed, with a verdict expected within the next month.

Shiau was found dead on 6 August 2022 inside a ninth-floor apartment at H. Sheerin Villa in Malé. Police arrested Ali Sahil of Finifenmaage, F. Nilandhoo, at the scene on the same night. Sahil was residing in a room within the apartment at the time.

According to prosecutors, Sahil faces five charges in connection with the case, including the charge of intentional murder. The case also involves allegations relating to the decapitation and dismemberment of Shiau's body.

The court delivered verdicts on two of the charges in April this year. Sahil was convicted of possession of pornography and cannabis use and sentenced to a combined prison term of three years, one month and six days.

The Criminal Court is continuing to hear the remaining charges, including the murder charge and two other charges being heard in closed proceedings.

According to the Prosecutor General's Office, hearings in the case concluded last week and the court is expected to issue its judgment within 30 days.

The trial has faced delays over the past several years. Court proceedings were repeatedly postponed after Sahil remained non-verbal and declined to participate during hearings.

State authorities made several attempts to appoint legal representation for him. However, officials said Sahil refused to cooperate with assigned lawyers, resulting in the cessation of publicly funded legal representation. He is currently representing himself in court.

Sahil has denied the charges and has not admitted guilt in relation to any of the offences.

Separately, Sahil sought to appeal his convictions and sentence for pornography possession and cannabis use on two occasions. Both appeals were rejected by the High Court.

The forthcoming verdict will determine the outcome of the remaining charges arising from one of the country's most closely followed criminal cases in recent years.