Trial against Dr Afrasheem murder suspect Shaan begins

The trial against Ali Shaan of H. Hicoast, a suspect in the murder of Ungoofaaru MP Dr Afrasheem Ali, has commenced today.

Speaking in court today, the State Prosecutor said that Shaan is charged with first degree murder, for going to H. Funvilu with a group of people and killing Dr Afrasheem Ali using a sharp object on the night of 1 October between 11:30 pm and 2:00 am.

When the claims were presented, Shaan said that he would like to appoint a lawyer to represent him.

He said that he would have to talk with his family to appoint a new lawyer, as the one previously appointed is currently suspended.

Shaan said that he had not been informed of any evidence collected against him by the police. The judge replied that the State will be given the opportunity to present evidence after the defendant presents his defence.

The judge said that the State had requested to keep some documents related to the murder confidential, thus, only the non-confidential documents will be released.

The judge gave Shaan the opportunity to appoint a lawyer, before concluding today’s session of the trial. He also scheduled the next session for 5 May 2013.

The State has also charged Hussain Humaam of H. Lobby with first degree murder. Humaam has denied the charges and appointed a lawyer with the State’s assistance.

The minor who kept guard outside Funvilu while the murder was committed, has been charged with providing false statements. He has confessed to the crime.

Commissioner of Police Abdullah Riyaz has said that according to investigations, Kuda Henveyru group was paid MVR 4,000,000 to murder Dr Afrasheem Ali.