President Dr Mohamed Muizzu has revealed that 347 people are currently in custody pending trial, most of whom face serious criminal charges. He made the remarks while responding to a concern raised by a citizen during a community meeting with the residents of Maafannu ward, Male’ City.
The President explained that prolonged pre-trial detention had previously been a significant issue due to inadequate capacity at the Criminal Court and the Drug Court. As a result of being under-resourced, the courts were overwhelmed by caseloads, delaying trial for those in custody, he explained. The current government has since strengthened these courts by providing adequate space and resources, which has allowed trial dates to be scheduled more quickly, he said.
The President also provided details of the detainees awaiting trial:
- Murder cases: 29
- Terrorism cases: 20
- Child sexual abuse cases: 117
- Assault cases: 70
- Drug trafficking: 116
- Other offences: money laundering, theft and armed robbery, domestic violence, kidnapping, human trafficking, arson, prostitution, smuggling and homosexuality.
The President questioned whether any citizen would wish for individuals accused of such serious offences to be released into society without undergoing the required judicial due process.
President Dr Muizzu reiterated that the government has guaranteed both financial and administrative independence for the judiciary. He affirmed that the current administration does not, and will not, exert influence over the judicial sector to secure specific verdicts, assuring the public that this commitment to the rule of law will be steadfastly upheld.