Shaheeb Ibrahim, a central figure in one of the largest drug smuggling cases in Maldives, has been convicted and sentenced to life imprisonment. The Criminal Court handed down the verdict after determining his involvement in the illegal import of 130 kilograms of drugs into the country.
The Case
The case involved seven individuals who used a fishing vessel to transport a substantial quantity of drugs into the Maldives. Initially, all seven were held in custody throughout the trial, though some were released before the final hearing.
In the court’s final ruling, all seven accused were found guilty. Alongside Shaheeb Ibrahim, the convicted include:
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Ahmed Moosa
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Aseel Mahir of Dhunfinige, GA. Villingili
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Anas Hussain of Sell, Lh. Hinnavaru
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Two Bangladeshi nationals, Iqbal and Mohamed Riyad
An 18-year-old accused in the case faced prosecution as well, but the Juvenile Court determined there was insufficient evidence to secure a conviction.
Charges and Legal Proceedings
Shaheeb Ibrahim and Ahmed Moosa were specifically charged with drug trafficking and smuggling drugs into the Maldives. The case marks the largest drug-related prosecution in the country to date.
Shaheeb initially evaded authorities, refusing to appear in court. Police issued a public notice seeking assistance in locating him. He eventually surrendered after his wife, Aishath Waheedha (M. Karadhuburige), was arrested for allegedly assisting him in avoiding capture.
Wife’s Arrest and Ongoing Investigation
Following Shaheeb’s surrender, the Criminal Court confirmed that his wife had helped him evade law enforcement. Although Aishath Waheedha has since been released, authorities have stated that the charges against her remain under investigation and will be prosecuted if sufficient evidence is found.
Shaheeb was immediately taken into custody without a remand hearing to allow the court to issue the final verdict. His surrender followed closely on the heels of his wife’s detention, underscoring the complex web of involvement in the case.
Aftermath
This verdict is seen as a landmark decision in the Maldives’ ongoing fight against drug trafficking. Authorities continue to investigate all parties involved to ensure accountability and prevent future large-scale smuggling operations.
