The newly inaugurated Criminal Court and Drug Court building, known as the Justice Building Annexe, was officially opened in Hulhumalé yesterday by President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu. Prosecutor General Abbas Shareef stated that the new facility will enable the criminal justice system to operate more efficiently and accelerate the delivery of justice.
The Justice Building Annexe houses 15 courtrooms and 17 judges’ chambers, along with dedicated rooms for state prosecutors, defence attorneys, and other necessary trial facilities. This new building resolves the space limitations that have constrained the Criminal Court since 2022.
The Prosecutor General’s Office highlighted that with the new facility, the court can now operate at full capacity, supported by adequate staff and resources. Staff leave has been carefully managed to ensure uninterrupted court operations.
This marks the first dedicated judicial building since the Justice Building in Malé was opened in November 1992. The previous Criminal Court operated in a deteriorating former STO Head Office building, plagued by structural damage and unsafe conditions despite multiple repairs.
The PG Office expressed gratitude to all parties involved in overcoming these challenges and establishing a modern facility for the judiciary.