Inspector Ahmed Shiyam Appointed Police Spokesperson

Inspector of Police Ahmed Shiyam has been appointed spokesperson of the Maldives Police Service, effective today.

The police service confirmed the appointment in a statement issued to media outlets. Shiyam succeeds Superintendent of Police Arif, who previously served as the service’s spokesperson.

In his new role, Shiyam will oversee the police service’s media communications, including press briefings and public awareness initiatives.

The appointment follows Shiyam’s reinstatement to the police force earlier this year, after an absence of 12 years.

Shiyam was dismissed from the service in 2014 over allegations of abuse of office while serving as commander of the North Police Division. He challenged the dismissal through the courts.

Earlier this year, the High Court overturned a Civil Court ruling and found that his dismissal had been unlawful. The court ordered his immediate reinstatement and directed that he receive back pay and allowances for the period he was out of service.

The police service has implemented the order relating to his reinstatement. However, the prosecution has appealed to the Supreme Court against the order requiring payment of his full back salary and allowances.

Before his dismissal, Shiyam had been involved in the police service’s media operations for several years.

Following his reinstatement in June, Shiyam said on social media that he was grateful for the opportunity to return to active service. He also highlighted his personal connection to the police uniform, which he said he had helped design.

The appointment brings Shiyam back into a public-facing communications role within the police service after more than a decade away from active duty.