Judge Saeed calls in sick, “Finifenma” hearing cancelled

Tuesday’s hearing in which state witnesses were supposed to testify against individuals charged with involvement in explosion onboard presidential speedboat “Finifenma”, has been cancelled after one of the judges presiding over the case – Judge Saeed Ibrahim, called in sick.

Former Vice President and Tourism Minister – Ahmed Adeeb Abdul Gafoor and his former bodyguards – Ahmed Amir (Afza, L. Dhanbidhoo) and Hassan Rikaz (Ma. Sigma, Male’) stand accused on being involved in the explosion.

Tuesday’s hearing was cancelled after one of the judges presiding over the case – Judge Saeed Ibrahim called in sick on Tuesday.

Amir, one of the defendants in "Finifenma" eplosion being escorted into court on May 31, 2016. Sun photo: Mohamed Afrah

Meanwhile, Judicial Services Commission (JSC) voted on Monday to transfer Judge Saeed to Juvenile Court, and Judge Ahmed Shakeel to Criminal Court.

The decision was made upon request of Supreme Court.

Rikaz, one of the defendants in "Finifenma" eplosion being escorted into court on May 31, 2016. Sun photo: Mohamed Afrah

In addition to being charged with terrorism, Adeeb also stands accused of abusing his authority in the case.

Defendants submitted their witness list during the hearing held on May 26.

State submitted a list of 13 anonymous witnesses to prove Adeeb was the ring leader involved in planting explosives on “Finifenma” to assassinate President Abdulla Yameen and come to power. While Adeeb submitted a list of five anonymous witnesses to prove President Yameen tried to kick him out of the government, before the explosion.