Police Release MP Mauroof From Custody Following Medical Emergency

Police released Kendhoo MP Mauroof Zakir from custody on Saturday after he was taken to hospital for a medical emergency following his arrest during the fishermen’s protest.

The Maldives Police Service said Mauroof initially requested to see a doctor while in custody and was examined by the custodial medical officer. He was later transferred to hospital after the doctor referred him for further treatment. Police confirmed that he was released from custody following the hospital visit.

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Police arrested Mauroof on Thursday during a protest at sea organised by the Bodu Kanneli Masveringe Union (BKMU), accusing him, who is also a founder and General Secretary of the union, of attempting to obstruct police duty. The court later remanded him in custody for five days.

Responding to speculation circulating on social media about the treatment of detainees, police said they uphold standards that protect the basic human rights of all individuals in custody and prioritise detainees’ wellbeing. Police warned that unfounded claims risk causing unnecessary concern and undermining public trust in the institution.

In addition to MP Mauroof, police earlier confirmed the arrest of two expatriates from two separate fishing vessels that took part in the BKMU protest. Authorities have not disclosed details regarding their remand or legal status.

The arrests occurred on the second day of a large-scale protest led by the BKMU, which began last Wednesday on the occasion of Fishermen’s Day. A flotilla of around 50 fishing vessels departed from the Hulhumalé Kanneli Jetty before moving towards Malé, gathering outside the Presidential Jetty and stretching as far as Masveringe Park.