The High Court has ruled that a Criminal Court unlawfully granted bail to a man accused of drugging, exploiting, and blackmailing a minor.

The accused was arrested on 24 May 2024 and initially remanded in judicial custody for 30 days under the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences Act. However, after the remand period expired, the Criminal Court released him on bail with conditions, including avoiding contact with witnesses and refraining from influencing testimony.

The state challenged the release, arguing that the accused posed a threat to children in the community, might tamper with evidence, and could repeat the offence. It contended that the bail decision was unjustified, as no change in circumstances warranted the accused’s release.

The High Court found that the Criminal Court’s decision failed to consider crucial factors, including the victim’s age and the risk of evidence tampering or societal harm. Justice Mohammad Faisal, presiding over the case, ruled that the grounds for continued detention were still valid. He noted that the prosecution had provided sufficient evidence, and the victim’s age should have been a significant factor in the decision.

The court held that allowing bail under such conditions could undermine the integrity of the judicial process. The ruling was supported by Justices Hussain Majeed and Huzaifa Mohamed, who were part of the bench.

The High Court set aside the Criminal Court’s verdict and directed the Prosecutor General’s Office to seek bail reconsideration in the lower court within seven days. It also instructed the lower court to reach a prompt decision.

This ruling reinforces the importance of safeguarding vulnerable victims and ensuring judicial processes are upheld.