Thimarafushi extremism case: Verdict scheduled next

The trial of individuals accused of spreading extremist ideologies and plotting a terrorist attack in Th. Thimarafushi has concluded, with the court now preparing to deliver a verdict.

The court is set to deliver its verdict in this case following repeated concerns raised by the defendants' families to various state authorities regarding the prolonged nature of the trial.

According to the Prosecutor General’s Office, the individuals detained in this case were operating under the instructions of the terrorist organization Islamic State. They are accused of planning and inciting acts of terrorism within the Maldives, which included the assembly of an improvised explosive device (IED) intended to be detonated at a location within the country.

Furthermore, the state alleges that the group was preparing to pose a threat to national security by conducting training exercises on uninhabited islands under the guise of picnic trips. The prosecution also claims that they were actively propagating extremist ideologies in Thimarafushi by conducting in-person classes at various private residences and hosting extremist lectures online.

Furthermore, they are accused of organizing separate prayer congregations instead of following the government-appointed imams in mosques. They are also alleged to have provided financial assistance to individuals with links to extremist groups.

The state has pressed charges against eight individuals in connection with this case.

The defendants:

1. Ali Muneez, Canaryge, Th. Thimarafushi
2. Mohamed Asir, Asurumaage, Th. Thimarafushi
3. Abdulla Shareef, Fehividhuvaruge, Th. Thimarafushi
4. Ahsan Mohamed, Asrafee Villa, Th. Thimarafushi
5. Abdulla Imad, Beach House, R. Maduvvari
6. Shamah Shareef, Saima, Th. Thimarafushi
7. Ibrahim Looth, Rosemead, N. Kudafari
8. Ali Arham Mohamed, R. Kandholhudhoo

The charges filed in this case include conspiracy to commit an act of terrorism, incitement to terrorism, and possession of material indicating support for a terrorist organization. Additionally, the defendants are charged with attempting to join a foreign conflict, undergoing training to carry out acts of terrorism, and obstruction of justice.

The charges for this case were filed in court on February 8, 2021. All hearings for the trial were concluded on April 8, 2024. During the final hearing, both parties presented their closing arguments and delivered their final statements.

Consequently, the next step will be for the court to issue a ruling on the matter.

According to the Criminal Procedure Act, a verdict must be delivered within 30 days of the hearing held for the presentation of closing statements. Therefore, the court is expected to reach a decision on this matter by May 8, 2026.