Yoga Day violence: Terrorism charges against Nishan, Fazloon and Mohamed Ismail dropped

Terrorism charges against Sheikh Adam Nishan bin Ali Adam, Sheikh Fazloon Mohamed and Vilimale’ MP Mohamed Ismail have been dropped.

Both of them, along with multiple others, have been charged with terrorism and other charges over the mob attack on the event held at the national football stadium on June 21, 2022, to mark World Yoga Day.

Nishan and Fazloon were charged with encouraging an act of terrorism, while Mohamed Ismail was charged with participation in an act of terrorism.

Prosecutor General’s Office (PG Office), via an announcement on Tuesday, said some of the suspects charged in connection with the Yoga Day mob attack had requested to review their charges.

They include Nishan, Fazloon and Mohamed Ismail.

According to the PG Office, after reviewing the charges, they have decided against moving forward with the cases apart from the cases involving suspects whom against there is evidence directly linking them to direct participation in attacking the participants of the Yoga Day event, inciting fear among them.

In this regard, PG Office decided not to pursue cases involving charges under the Anti-Terrorism Act and the Act Prohibiting Threats and Possession of Dangerous Weapons and Sharp Objects.

Factors considered when reaching the decision:

• The actions of the suspects stemming from emotions in response to the Yoga Day event
• Cases remaining stalled at court for an extended period
• Individuals charged in the case lacking criminal record and their role in society

As such, the terrorism charges against Nishan, Fazloon and Mohamed Ismail have been dismissed.

However, PG Office will proceed with the cases against seven individuals whom against there is evidence linking them to direct participation in attacking the participants of the Yoga Day event. The seven individuals have been charged with obstruction of law enforcement. They are:

1. Abdulla Rifau, Narugis Villa, Th. Thimarafushi
2. Aboobakuru Faariu, Carnationmaage, N. Miladhoo
3. Ahmed Aksam, Alamaage, R. Kandholhudhoo
4. Ahmed Nasooh, Asrafee Villa, GA. Maamendhoo
5. Hassan Shifaz, M. Kudhehige, Male’
6. Shabim Adam, Aabaadheegulshan, F. Dhanburudhoo
7. Mohamed Zilian, Ma. Kanuhuraa, Male’

Notably, Nishan and Fazloon’s license to preach were revoked following the Yoga Day mob attack. Their licenses were reinstated on March 11, 2024.