Detention extended for a second time for blast suspects

Detention periods have been extended for a second time for the three suspects arrested over the explosion on the presidential speedboat, Finifenmaa, last month.

The three Maldives National Defence Force (MNDF) officers were given additional 15 days today.

Two of them have been named as Mohamed Jawaz and Moosa Zameer. The third person’s identity is unknown.

Sun Media understands police said at the court hearing that Jawaz was being accused of making the bomb that detonated on-board Finifenmaa.

No details were given in court regarding evidence gathered in this investigation.

Sun Media has learned from credible sources that Zameer is an expert in defusing bombs.

He used to work in MNDF Special Protections Group (SPG).

While the President was unharmed, his wife and bodyguard suffered serious injuries in the blast.

Following this, a new unit has been established in the MNDF. The Presidential Security Division (PSD) will replace the SPG’s functions related to providing security to the president.

Colonel Abdul Raheem has been appointed as the head of the PSD, and the head of SPG, Colonel Ahmed Fayaz, has been transferred to the post of Commander of Malé Area.

Also, Fayaz and former bodyguard of Vice President Ahmed Adeeb, Corporal Ahmed Amir, are being held in detention in MNDF premises.