High Court Appeal Filed Over Taxi Drivers’ Detention Following Protest in Hulhumale’

Two taxi drivers detained for allegedly obstructing public movement during a protest in Hulhumalé have appealed their detention at the High Court.

The protest, held on Wednesday, was organised in response to government plans to introduce a taxi fleet services. Three drivers were initially arrested, but one was released on conditional bail. The remaining two, Mohamed Shamin (39) and Ahmed Shabeen (33), were remanded in custody for five days by a local court. Nouman Ahmed (36), the third detainee, was granted bail.

advertisement

advertisement

advertisement

At a press conference, lawyer Aik Ahmed Easa criticised the police for seeking a 15-day remand, arguing there was no justification for such a request. Aik confirmed that an appeal had been filed at the High Court to seek the release of Shamin and Shabeen.

Meanwhile, 22 taxis involved in the protest were towed away for blocking roads. Aik described the towing as illegal, emphasising that it deprived individuals of their primary source of income. He announced plans to file a case in the Civil Court to seek compensation and the return of the vehicles.

The protest began at 6:30 pm on Wednesday, with drivers voicing concerns over the government’s proposal to establish a state-operated taxi service. Protesters claimed the initiative would undermine private drivers, taxi centres, and garages. They also demanded the reversal of fare changes for van trips, improved traffic flow between Malé and the airport, and better parking arrangements in the capital.

The Transport Ministry clarified that no action has yet been taken to implement the proposed taxi fleet. Transport Minister Mohamed Ameen recently stated that government intervention was necessary to regulate the industry and address safety concerns, citing the increasing number of vehicles in Malé. Ameen assured drivers they would not be adversely affected by the changes.

The protest, initially peaceful, escalated when drivers blocked the Hulhumalé highway after hours of unmet demands. This caused significant congestion, prompting police to intervene by towing vehicles and dispersing the demonstrators.

Maldives Police Service reported that the detained individuals were presented in court for remand hearings on Thursday, resulting in the conditional release of one driver while the other two remained in custody.