The Criminal Court has issued a warning to former president Abdulla Yameen Abdul Gayoom after he left Malé while a hearing was scheduled in his ongoing trial.

A hearing on the charges against Yameen was set for Monday afternoon. However, he travelled to Haa Alifu Dhidhdhoo to attend a ceremony, prompting the court to send him a message cautioning him not to repeat such actions.

In its message, the court stated that leaving Malé without the court’s permission while a hearing is scheduled could lead to legal consequences. It noted that failing to appear in court without a valid reason and departing the location of the court without authorisation are actions that may warrant legal action.

The hearing, which was delayed due to a power outage, was later cancelled.

Yameen’s lawyer said the former president had informed the court in writing and requested that the hearing be conducted online before leaving Malé.