Three drug case suspects released with electronic monitoring tags

Three individuals previously detained in connection with drug-related cases have been released under electronic monitoring conditions, according to court documents.

Criminal Court ordered the release of Ibrahim Rashad (42), M. Badhuru, Mohamed Nameen (24), Thaa Guraidhoo, and Mohamed Najih (24), Shaviyani Milandhoo.

Ibrahim Rashad was arrested last year after he went to the post office to collect a parcel containing 980 grams of drugs. He has a history of involvement in other drug cases. Nameen and Najih are both accused of using or trafficking cannabis.

Prosecutor General's (PG) Office had filed a motion to review the detention orders, citing that although Rashad has a criminal record, he was not believed to be the main orchestrator in the alleged drug trafficking case.

The court noted that police and customs officials were available to testify, and a risk assessment had been conducted. PG Office recommended his release under electronic monitoring on May 27, which was granted.

As part of the conditions for release, the individuals must appear in court when required and notify the court if they change their address or phone number. They are also prohibited from leaving their respective islands without court permission, must not tamper with or remove their monitoring tags, and must observe a curfew from 11:00 pm to 5:00 am Any violation of these terms will result in immediate police detention.

All three suspects agreed to the court-imposed conditions, and their release is valid for 100 days. If an extension is needed, it must be requested before the current term ends.

The electronic monitoring program was implemented on Wednesday to address concerns about indefinite pre-trial detention. Following the release of several individuals under this system, President Dr Mohamed Muizzu stated that the long-standing issue of prolonged detentions would be resolved by easing custody for those who meet specific conditions.

However, PG Office said that individuals facing charges related to child sexual abuse, murder, serious terrorism, or major drug trafficking will not be eligible for release under the monitoring system.