Minister of Home Affairs Imran Abdulla has stated the Yemeni Arabic teacher Yasir Yahya detained by Maldives Corrections Service was apprehended on terrorism charges.
Speaking at a press conference at Maldives Police Services (MPS), Minister Imran said the former Arabic teacher who is married to a Maldivian has a history of terrorist activities, in addition to such allegations from international media and organisations. Yasir was arrested by MPS under a court order on March 3, 2017.
Minister Imran further explained international allies have shared various accusations against him and freeing a person with such allegations back to the community is dangerous. He also revealed Maldives received information about his activities even before his arrival to the country.
The minister also explained Yasir had been instructed on several occasions to leave Maldives, which he rejected. Imran said Yasir has claimed he had lost his passport, adding the due to the civil war, it is difficult to communicate with Yemeni authorities. He also said Yasir shall be deported back to Yemen, should he accept to do so, under the rights provided by the Controller of Immigration.
Speaking at the news conference, Commissioner of Police Mohamed Hameed said Yasir has been allegedly linked with terrorist activities in many countries. He also spent time in jails of other countries due to his activates.
Hameed further said he has connections with international terrorist groups. Yasir has been detained for more than two years without due process. He has been on a hunger strike for over two months now. He is currently admitted in hospital.