An Indian man has been remanded in custody for five days by the Criminal Court on Wednesday over allegations of money laundering.
Abdul Ragoob Nistar Haleem Rahman was arrested after a large sum of US dollars was found in his possession. According to the arrest warrant, Rahman was unable to explain to the police how he obtained the money. Further suspicion arose from his pattern of frequent visits to the Maldives, often followed by departures the next day.
While the police have not disclosed the exact amount of money seized, they reported that documents were found indicating the dollars had been handed over to Rahman by others. The police further alleged that Rahman’s passport name had been altered.
During the court proceedings, Rahman’s defence lawyers argued that the arrest procedures were flawed, claiming he was presented before a judge after more than 24 hours had passed. However, the police countered this claim, asserting that Rahman was produced in court within the required 24-hour timeframe following his detention.
The court order clarified that Rahman was initially detained by Maldives Customs and then transferred to police custody upon becoming a suspect in a crime. The order also confirmed that less than 24 hours elapsed between his transfer to police custody and his court appearance.
The court order also emphasised that Maldives Customs and Maldives Immigration have the authority to detain individuals under the Customs Act without criminal charges.
The reasons cited for Rahman’s arrest include the seriousness of the alleged offence, his failure to explain the source of the money found in his possession, and his suspicious travel history.
Rahman’s defence lawyers maintained that the money seized from him was obtained legitimately. The police have yet to present any evidence supporting the money laundering charges against him.