Fuggiri Case: PG Withdraws Charges Against Ahmed Krick Riza

The Prosecutor General’s Office has decided not to refile charges and withdraw the case against Ahmed Krick Riza in connection with irregularities in the leasing of R. Fuggiri, a key episode in the Maldives Marketing and Public Relations Corporation (MMPRC) corruption scandal. Riza is accused of bribing officials, including former President Abdulla Yameen.

Case Background

The MMPRC scandal, one of the largest corruption cases in Maldivian history, involved the embezzlement of millions of dollars through the leasing of state-owned islands and lagoons. Riza’s charges specifically stem from allegations that he bribed officials to secure the lease of R. Fuggiri, with payments allegedly reaching high-level political figures.

advertisement

advertisement

advertisement

In 2023, the original case against Riza was withdrawn after defence evidence, notably an audio recording claimed to feature then-Assistant Commissioner of Police Mohamed Riyaz, was submitted for verification. The prosecution stated that it needed time to authenticate the evidence before proceeding.

However, during a hearing today, state advocate Ahmed Shafeeu told the court that police had failed to complete the necessary investigation into the audio file. Amid prolonged delays, Riza requested a formal review of his case.

Why the Case Was Filed

Due to the delays, Riza formally requested a case review from the PGO. After Abbas Shareef took over as Prosecutor General, he initiated a review of long-pending cases. Upon review, the PGO determined that the case could not justifiably remain in limbo and decided to formally file the case.

At today’s hearing, Prosecutor Shafeeu emphasised that it was unfair to the parties involved — and to the judicial process — to allow the matter to stall indefinitely without action.

Ongoing Court Challenges

The Fuggiri case has been riddled with obstacles over the past years. Hearings were frequently cancelled after Riza submitted medical documents claiming illness, which raised questions in court about their validity.

A hearing was held today in the money laundering case against former President Yameen, relating to funds linked to the Fuggiri case. 

At today’s hearing, Riza, a defence witness proposed by former President Yameen, was once again absent, citing poor health. Complicating matters further, several key witnesses who previously supported the prosecution’s case against former President Yameen have now declined to testify. Youth Minister’s Advisor Ahmed Naresh and Fuel Supply Maldives (FSM) Deputy Managing Director Shuawullah Saeed both informed the court via email that they were unwilling to appear.

Former President Yameen is separately charged with accepting bribes and laundering illicit funds.

Upcoming Hearings

The judge concluded today’s session by scheduling the next hearing for May 26 to record additional evidence. Further sessions are set for June 17 and July 20 to discuss and finalise the evidentiary issues.