A Federal High Court in Abuja dismissed a no-case submission Tuesday by suspended Deputy Commissioner of Police Abba Kyari and his brothers Mohammed and Ali, ruling that the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency's evidence on 23 counts of asset non-disclosure and money laundering warrants the trio to present a defense.

Justice James Omotosho delivered the verdict after the prosecution closed its case with 10 witnesses and over 20 exhibits, including property documents and financial records. The NDLEA accuses the Kyaris of failing to declare assets, disguising ownership, and laundering crime proceeds – violations under the NDLEA Act and Money Laundering Prohibition Act.

Kyari's team argued the evidence fell short of a prima facie case, citing gaps like uncertified land titles under the Evidence Act. But Omotosho countered that even a "slight connection" between the defendants and charges suffices at this stage, stressing no guilt determination yet."This isn't a finding of guilt," the judge said. "It ensures a fair hearing under Section 36 of the 1999 Constitution." He reiterated the presumption of innocence and the prosecution's burden to prove guilt beyond reasonable doubt per the Evidence Act.

The ruling came after the brothers challenged property links, but Omotosho refused to weigh evidence now. "The prosecution's case points to explanations needed from the defendants," he noted, given the allegations' weight.

Kyari, suspended since 2022 over separate drug charges, must file his defense within three days. The trial resumes November 4-6.

The case spotlights ongoing scrutiny of public officials' finances, with NDLEA pushing transparency amid broader anti-corruption drives.