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Police seek charges against main suspect of May 6 blast

Maldives Police Service has requested the Prosecutor General's Office to raise charges against one of the main suspects of the May 6 blast that targeted Speaker Mohamed Nasheed.

The May 6 attack targeted Speaker of the Parliament and former President of the Maldives by detonating an IED as he entered his vehicle near his residence in capital Male'. According to the Maldives National Defense Force (MNDF), the IED was strapped to a motorcycle parked nearby. Nasheed sustained serious injuries in the attack and multiple critical surgeries were performed on Nasheed at ADK Hospital. Nasheed traveled to Germany on May 13, and he is now in the United Kingdom where he is recuperating from his injuries.

The police have arrested 10 suspects linked to the May 6 blast. Among the first to be arrested were Adhuham Ahmed (25), Mujaz Ahmed (21), Thahmeen Ahmed (32) and Ahmed Fathih (23). Six other suspects, Ali Haisham from N. Manadhoo, shaq from K. Male, Fahmy Ali from Ga. Villingili, Mohamed Nazim from Aa. Maalhos, Abdulla Ali Manik from Ha. Molhadhoo and Mohamed Thasmeen from Ha. Hoarafushi were later arrested.

While the police have already requested the PG Office to raise charges against Adhuham, Mujaz, Thahmeeen and Fathih, the Prosecutor General said a decision on the matter will be reached next week. He has also confirmed that the police have requested to raise charges against Ali Haisham on Thursday. The PG Office must make a decision regarding the request over the next 15 days. Shameem said a decision will be reached by end of next week.

According to the latest press conference held by the police, Ali Haisham, Mohamed Thasleem and Ishaq are believed to be the main suspects behind planning the attack. Ali Haisham is also believed to have actively participated in strapping the IED to the motorcycle.