The ongoing extradition hearing against billionaire businessmen Nazar and Azruddin Mohamed was halted and adjourned this morning after the court was informed of the hospitalization of 73-year-old Nazar Mohamed following a medical emergency.
Nazar was reportedly preparing for court when he experienced a health crisis, prompting his urgent transport to the hospital due to complaints of chest pains associated with a heart condition and elevated blood pressure.
According to his son, Azruddin Mohamed, his father is facing several medical issues. “He has a heart complication; he has pressure issues, diabetes. I guess at 73 years of age, this is really taking a toll on him, and I wish him a speedy recovery,” Azruddin stated to reporters outside the courtroom.
Both inside and outside the courtroom, the prosecution expressed their well-wishes for Mr. Mohamed’s recovery. Prosecuting Attorney Glenn Hanoman remarked, “We wish Nazar Mohamed well. We wish him a speedy recovery. These things happen, and there’s nothing we can do.”
Hanoman suggested to the court that if Nazar Mohamed is still unwell at the next hearing on February 16, he should appear virtually. However, the defense objected to this proposal, with concerns about potential delays in the proceedings.
“There is a cost; even the court has to mobilize from a different jurisdiction to be here. Prosecutors have to be present…I believe the law allows for virtual appearances, and this is a reasonable solution. If he needs to rest, the court can accommodate that,” Hanoman argued.
Defense Attorney Siand Dhurjon countered, asserting that senior Mohamed would be present in court once he recovers. “If he feels much better, he will come on the next occasion. However, as of now, I don’t think the magistrate is willing to entertain too many virtual appearances,” Dhurjon explained, reflecting on the resistance from counsel for the USA regarding virtual attendance.
The case is scheduled to reconvene on February 16 for a report.
