Four Released from Custody in Galolhu Assault Case Due to Insufficient Evidence

Four men arrested in connection with an alleged break-in and assault in Galolhu, Malé, have been released from custody after the Criminal Court ruled there was insufficient evidence to continue detaining them.

The incident occurred approximately one month ago and attracted public attention after a video circulated on social media appeared to show the victim being threatened and assaulted. In the footage, the victim’s mouth is taped over, and he appears to be subjected to cigarette burns while restrained. Another individual is seen preparing to strike him with a large stapler. The motive for the attack remains unclear.

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Those arrested in connection with the case were Ali Nawaf, 21, of Fazaa, Th. Guraidhoo; Mohamed Azaan, 23, of Haveyli, N. Manadhoo; Ibrahim Ahunaf, 21, of Elas, N. Velidhoo; and Mohamed Aflah, 23, of Reethi Hiyaa, AA. Maalhos. They were initially remanded in custody for 15 days, with their detention extended twice during the ongoing investigation.

At a hearing on Monday, held as their remand period expired, the Criminal Court decided to release the suspects on conditional bail. The prosecution had requested that the four remain in custody until trial. However, the court noted that there was insufficient evidence presented during the detention period to justify further remand.

During the hearing, the suspects told the court they had entered the apartment believing it to be rented by a friend identified as ‘Athoof’. They claimed to have documentation to support this assertion, although police said no such documents had been received. The suspects further stated they had entered the premises to clean it, having been paid by Athoof to do so. They denied involvement in any damage to the apartment or any acts of violence.

Police, however, told the court that the landlord had identified ‘Ali Shiman Rasheed’ as the individual who had rented the apartment. According to the landlord, the lease agreement was signed under duress, following threats made against him.