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Rilwan's murder case to be sent to PG next week

President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih has affirmed the murder case of journalist Ahmed Rilwan Abdulla will be forwarded to Prosecutor General's Office (PG Office) by next week to press charge against the suspects involved.

Speaking at a news briefing held at President's Office, President Solih explained the Presidential Commission on Investigation of Murders and Enforced Disappearances have presented their report after probe.

With the evidence related to the case collected, the case will now be sent to PG Office for prosecution. The presidential commission had shared their findings with the Speaker of Parliament Mohamed Nasheed. The report compiled by the commission includes suspects and accomplices in abducting Rilwan. Authorities now believe Rilwan was murdered following his abduction.

President Solih explained that the special operations conducted by Maldives Polices Service last week uncovered new evidence. In this regard, a total of 17 residences, 11 person were searched in Male' City and Addu City in addition to searching some vessels. He also explained the challenges the government face due to current anti-terrorism law as suspects cannot be detained for more than 30 days.

President Solih explained the amendments requested by the government would allow the investigative bodies to identify real terrorists. He expects to prosecute extremists and individuals who fight wars abroad. Some amendments proposed by the government contradicts the constitution and the government shall seek solutions after discussions with the cabinet members, according to the president.

In addition, President Solih also announced updates into other investigations by the commission. He explained the probe on the investigation into blogger Yaameen Rasheed has also been completed but due to ongoing court proceedings, the report is withheld from publishing.

Meanwhile, the probe into the murder of 25-year-old boat captain Mohamed Anas is nearing conclusion, according to the president. He revealed the report would be finalised once the commission takes statements from two witnesses. He further added the investigative report on Raudha Athif, who was found dead while studying medicine in Bangladesh, was also complete.