Two men convicted over 2012 murder

Two men charged over the fatal stabbing of Abdul Muheeth ‘Bobby’ in the capital Malé seven years ago have been found guilty of murder.

Mohamed Maimoon, from Lhaviyani atoll Naifaru island, and Muhjath Ahmed, from Gaafu Dhaalu atoll Gadhdhoo island, were convicted by the criminal court on Tuesday. A third suspect, Ali Mushahfau from Addu City, was found not guilty.

The court is due to hold a sentencing hearing within 10 days. Both the prosecution and defence will be allowed to present arguments.

Bobby was killed in a gang fight in February 2012. The murder provoked an outpouring of public grief after it emerged that the 21-year-old had been mistaken for a member of a rival gang. A ‘Justice for Bobby’ Facebook page was ‘liked’ by nearly 15,000 people as hundreds turned out for a silent protest in June 2012.

Two minors were also charged over the fatal stabbing. They were found guilty and sentenced to death by the juvenile court in 2013.

The High Court upheld their sentences in November 2016. An appeal is presently before the Supreme Court.

Eight suspects were initially arrested over the murder as police launched an operation to curb gang violence.