Death of Abdul Rahman: Defense requests DNA report before responding to charges
State prosecutors have formally read charges in the Criminal Court against three individuals accused of the murder of Abdul Rahman Adam in AA. Maalhos. The case centers on allegations that the victim was attacked and killed while asleep; following a change in the presiding judge, the trial has been restarted, with efforts currently underway to obtain DNA reports. The defendants are expected to enter their pleas during the next scheduled hearing.
The individuals charged in connection with the brutal murder of Abdul Rahman Adam, a resident of Orchidmaage in AA. Maalhos. | Raajje MV
A hearing was held at the Criminal Court on Monday regarding the case of Abdul Rahman Adam, of Orchidmaage, AA. Maalhos, who was allegedly murdered in a brutal manner.
The state is prosecuting three individuals in this case. They are Ahmed Ashid of Fiya, AA. Maalhos; Mohamed Wisam of Lilifehi, AA. Maalhos; and Ahmed Faris of Finivaage, AA. Maalhos.
Monday's hearing focused on the procedural matters following a change in the presiding judge. During the session, the judge reviewed the current status and progress of the case to date. The case is now being presided over by Criminal Court Judge Ahmed Niyaz.
Only one hearing has been held in this case to date. That session took place in December of last year. During that hearing, the presiding judge granted additional time for the parties to complete the necessary documentation.
Judge Niyaz stated that the proceedings would commence from the preliminary stage. Accordingly, the prosecution formally presented the charges during this hearing.
In connection with this case, Ashid has been charged with intentional murder using a dangerous weapon. The prescribed penalty for this offense is capital punishment. However, at any stage prior to the execution of the death penalty, if the heirs of the victim grant a pardon—either by accepting blood money from the convict or his paternal relatives, or by waiving it entirely—the death sentence will be commuted, and the convict will instead be subject to a discretionary sentence.
Furthermore, Wisam and Farish have been charged with complicity in intentional murder using a dangerous weapon. The penalty for this offense includes 18 years of imprisonment and a fine ranging between 2 million and 5 million Rufiyaa.
The state's indictment alleges that the defendants broke into Abdurrahman's residence and fatally assaulted him while he was asleep, striking him in the head.
During the hearing, the defense counsel stated that the DNA report is required before responding to the charges, noting that more than five months have passed since the case was initially filed. The defense further requested the court to grant an opportunity to enter a plea only after the report has been provided.
The state prosecutor stated that the police have not yet provided a specific date for when the report will be available.
Consequently, the next hearing will focus on the defendant's response to the charges and a court decision regarding an order requested by the state.
