- No pressure on the Home Minister
- Tagged individuals seeking protection with political figures
- Sato will be brought to justice
Home Minister has defended the Ministry's decision to tag Ali Shan (Sato) of H. Hicoast, stating that he is suspected on many major crimes. His statement comes amid accusations by ruling coalition member party MDA that the Minister had tagged Sato without valid cause.
Sato was also a key suspect in the murder of late Ungoofaaru Constituency MP Dr. Afrasheem Ali along with Hussain Humam of H. Lobby. Sato was on trial for the murder but had been declared innocent based on lack of evidence. At that time, many had speculated that he was released due to the influence of an influential political figure.
Screen shots of MDA Youth League viber group had circulated on social media, with many of the members calling for his release. Some of the members had said that Sato was an active member of the party activities and not involved in major crimes or violence. Additionally, an individual who had claimed to be Ahmed Reehan, MDA Youth League Leader, had said the Party's Deputy Leader Mauroof was seeking to secure his release.
Screen shots of MDA Youth League viber group had circulated on social media, with many of the members calling for his release. Some of the members had said that Sato was an active member of the party activities and not involved in major crimes or violence. Additionally, an individual who had claimed to be Ahmed Reehan, MDA Youth League Leader, had said the Party's Deputy Leader Mauroof was seeking to secure his release.
Minister Umar said MDA had not contacted the Minister regarding the issue. He also said some political figures had sought to pressure the Government in such similar cases. However, the Minister denied that there was any pressure on him.
The Home Minister had previously said the tagging system is used on gang leaders and those suspected in major crimes. The Ministry had set strict guidelines for those under surveillance.
