The Prosecutor General's Office has asked the Criminal Court to withdraw the charges against Ahmed Krik Riza in the Fuggiri corruption case.
The prosecution has filed two charges against former President Abdulla Yameen in the case-- Accepting bribes in leasing Fuggiri island and utilizing the money to commit money laundering. Yameen is accused of accepting bribes amounting to US$1.1 million. Krik Riza has been charged with money laundering and acting as an intermediary in the bribery scheme. Additionally, Sun Investment and Sun Construction Company are facing charges of money laundering in the case.
However, while Krik Riza is being tried alongside Yameen, the trial proceedings involving both Krik Riza and Yameen have faced repeated cancellations due to Krik Riza's health. The most recent five hearings were not held as originally scheduled.
The Prosecutor General's Office said it explored the possibility of conducting a separate trial for Yameen and Krik Riza, given the current circumstances but found that it was legally unfeasible. The office said considering the significant public interest in the case and the potential negative implications of halting the proceedings due to one of the accused's health issues, the PGO has requested the temporary withdrawal of the charges against Krik Riza to further study the evidence against him. The PGO said the case would be reopened when the circumstances change, and clarifications are made. The prosecutor's office also said police are investigating the validity of defense evidence submitted by Riza.
If the charges against Krik Riza are withdrawn, Yameen's trial can proceed without interruptions due to Krik Riza's health.
