Azruddin Mohamed reprimanded for late arrival at court

Gold trader and Leader of the Opposition Azruddin Mohamed was reprimanded by Principal Magistrate Judy Latchman this afternoon after arriving late to court, where he was due to appear in ongoing extradition proceedings.

During the exchange, Mohamed apologised to the court and explained that transportation challenges contributed to his delayed arrival. He stated that issues affecting access to vehicles and reliance on a driver caused the setback, though he emphasised that he has generally maintained punctual attendance at previous hearings.

Magistrate Latchman reminded Mohamed that the court’s schedule must be strictly observed, warning that continued lateness would not be tolerated and could result in his bail being revoked and him being remanded to custody to ensure timely attendance.

Counsel for Mohamed expressed regret to the court for the inconvenience caused, acknowledging a prior instance of tardiness and assuring the bench that measures would be taken to prevent future delays. The attorney indicated a personal commitment to ensuring Mohamed arrives early for upcoming hearings.

The prosecution noted its concerns about delays but accepted that the explanation centred on transportation difficulties.

Mohamed was this morning placed into custody on arrival at the court following an arrest warrant issued for him by Magistrate Latchman due to his late arrival for proceedings in the extradition case.

At 9:05 the Magistrate issued the arrest warrant, stating that it was not the first time Mohamed has been late. He arrived 25 minutes later and was promptly arrested and placed in handcuffs.

His lawyers then moved to the courtroom of acting Chief Magistrate Faith McGusty asking for his release since they stated that the tyres on his vehicle had been slashed, resulting in his late arrival. The matter was then returned to Magistrate Latchman’s court and she reprimanded him