Man Arrested with Liquor Bottles Following Police Operation

The Maldives Police Service has apprehended a 33-year-old man in possession of three liquor bottles during a special operation yesterday.

The arrest followed the circulation of a viral video on social media, which showed a man being apprehended on the pavement of Majeedhee Magu. Responding to public inquiries about the footage, police confirmed that the operation was conducted based on intelligence reports of liquor peddling.

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The suspect has been identified as Mohamed Azham Saeed, originally from Gaafu Dhaal Gadhdhoo. According to the authorities, the liquor bottles were discovered under the seat of the motorbike he was riding at the time of the arrest.

The police have launched an investigation into the incident, noting that cases of liquor peddling and consumption by both locals and expatriates tend to increase during New Year celebrations. Similar incidents have been reported in Malé City and across the islands in previous years.

Yesterday, three expatriates were also arrested in Hulhumalé Phase 3 on suspicion of cooking alcohol as part of a broader operation ahead of the festive period. Authorities have intensified efforts to curb illegal activities, including liquor and drug peddling, in the lead-up to the New Year.

Five Arrested in Connection with Assault in Thimarafushi

In a separate case, five individuals have been arrested in Thimarafushi, Thaa Atoll, following a violent assault at a residence.

The suspects, identified by the police, include Ahmed Ameen (36) of Jahaamugurige, Ahmed Shahudhy (38) of Salwa, Aas Ibrahim (32) of Hiri, Abdulla Ashraf (39) of Gulbakaa Villa, and Mohamed Rauf (54) of Vavath, VilliMalé. The arrests were made under a court order.

Authorities reported that the incident was first brought to their attention on Sunday afternoon, around 13:30. Social media accounts claim the assailants used a sharp object during the attack, though the police have not confirmed this detail.

Investigations are ongoing, but further information regarding the motive or the extent of injuries sustained during the assault has yet to be disclosed.