Minister Ihusaan and senior police officers face contempt charges over drug smuggling case statements

15 Apr 2024 | 20:56
Minister Ihusan at press conference held on April 4

Minister of Homeland Security and Technology, Minister Ali Ihusaan and several senior police officers are facing allegations of contempt of court following statements made in connection with a major drug smuggling case.

The Criminal Court has accused them of attempting to influence judges, compromising judicial safety, and displaying contempt for the court.

The allegations stem from a press conference held earlier this month, where Minister Ihusaan and the police officers discussed details of the investigation into a drug smuggling operation involving 119 kilograms of narcotics.

Despite some suspects being acquitted by the Criminal Court, the police expressed dissatisfaction with the outcome and pressed charges against three individuals.

In response to the statements made during the press conference, the Criminal Court issued a statement on Monday, asserting that Minister Ihusaan and the police officers had violated judicial protocols and undermined the integrity of the court.

The court announced plans to convene an emergency meeting on Wednesday to address the matter and investigate potential breaches of judicial conduct.

The press conference, held on April 4, followed public outcry over the acquittal of certain suspects in the drug smuggling case.

During the conference, the police provided a comprehensive overview of the investigation and highlighted the involvement of four suspects, supported by video evidence.

The four suspects in question were:

- Ali Zubair, Guleynooramaage, GDh. Hoadedhdhoo

- Ahmed Sunain, Irumatheege, GDh. Hoadedhdhoo

- Ahmed Mujahidh, Allora, GDh. Hoadedhdhoo

- Mohamed Akram Abdul Hannan, Dhoadhi, GDh. Hoadedhdhoo

While charges were filed against three suspects, only one Ali Zubair was convicted by the Criminal Court.

Despite the acquittal of the other two suspects, the police reiterated their belief that there was sufficient evidence to secure convictions.

The involvement of Minister Ihusaan and senior police officers in the press conference has raised concerns about undue influence and respect for judicial proceedings.

The Criminal Court's decision to investigate the matter underscores the importance of upholding the rule of law and maintaining judicial independence.

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