Man found guilty of committing an assault in Male' in 2023 sentenced to seven years in prison
The Criminal Court has sentenced Shafeeq to seven years in prison for a 2023 stabbing incident at the Villimale' ferry terminal area. Although the defendant initially denied the charges, he later entered a guilty plea during the trial proceedings. With credit for time already served in custody, the court ruled that he must complete a remaining prison term of four years.
The building housing the Criminal Court of Maldives. | RaajjeMV | Raajje MV
A man convicted of a 2023 stabbing at the Male'-Villingili ferry terminal area has been sentenced to seven years in prison.
The defendant in this case has been identified as Mohamed Shafeeq, a resident of Janburoazgasdhoshuge in Gadhdhoo, Gaafu Dhaalu Atoll. He has been charged with assault using a sharp object or a dangerous weapon under the Prevention of Intimidation and Possession of Dangerous Weapons and Sharp Objects Act (Act No. 17/2010).
The assault took place at approximately 15:30 on February 14, 2023, near the Villimale' ferry terminal in Male'. Police stated that the defendant attacked and injured an individual using a sharp-edged weapon during the incident.
Regarding the case, police stated that they have completed the necessary investigative procedures, which included gathering forensic evidence from the scene, recording eyewitness statements, and determining the underlying cause of the assault. Following the conclusion of the police investigation, the case was forwarded to the Prosecutor General’s Office, which has since filed formal charges and submitted the matter to the Criminal Court.
During the proceedings at the Criminal Court, the bench reviewed evidence gathered during the police investigation, testimonies provided by witnesses, and other relevant evidentiary materials pertaining to the case.
After reviewing the evidence presented and the legal arguments submitted in this case, the Criminal Court delivered its verdict on March 10, 2026. The court ruled that Shafeeq was found guilty of assault using a sharp object.
Consequently, Shafeeq has been sentenced to seven years in prison for this offense. After deducting the time already served in pre-trial detention, his remaining sentence to be served has been set at four years.
During the preliminary hearing, Shafeeq denied the charges, claiming he was not present at the scene of the incident, and presented evidence in his defense. However, when given the opportunity to submit his closing statement, he confessed to the charges.
Furthermore, the police stated that this case represents a successful milestone in their ongoing efforts to investigate violent crimes and bring perpetrators to justice. The police also emphasized their unwavering commitment to maintaining public safety and investigating those who commit acts of violence, ensuring the continued pursuit of a secure society protected from such crimes.
