(Photo: File, GSM News )
Malé City, Maldives, 17 May 2025 –, GSM News:
The Maldives Police Service is under increasing public scrutiny over its handling of the investigation into the serious injury of Yumn (name withheld for privacy) and its response to protests that followed. Allegations of procedural lapses, political interference, and mistreatment of protestors have yet to be officially addressed, despite the formation of a presidential commission to look into the matter.
Unsecured Crime Scene and Early Narrative Control
Yumn, who remains in critical condition and is receiving medical care, was injured in an incident that occurred at a private residence in Malé. CCTV footage confirms that she was with one individual at the time: Raudh. He is the only confirmed person seen with her during the time leading up to the incident.
Critics point to the Maldives Police Service’s failure to secure the scene in a timely and professional manner. No immediate cordon was established, and reports suggest the rooftop where she was found was repaired shortly after the incident. These actions, according to legal observers, could have compromised key physical evidence.
Despite the lack of a completed forensic investigation, police officials publicly floated the theory that Yumn had fallen through a skylight—raising concerns about the premature formation of a conclusion.
Footage Release and Alleged Political Interference
In a public press conference held by the police, CCTV footage of Yumn was released to the media, revealing sensitive material about her movements before the incident. During this same press conference, an officer was overheard in audio recordings informing Commissioner of Police Mohamed Shujau that Transport Minister Mohamed Ameen was calling.
The timing of the call—during the public release of surveillance footage—has raised further questions about potential political interference in the police’s communication strategy and operational independence. No formal statement has been issued by the Ministry of Homeland Security regarding the nature of the call.
Arrests and Alleged Mistreatment During May Day Protest
On May 1st, protestors took to the streets in Malé, calling for justice and transparency. Two protest organizers were arrested. However, legal representatives have stated that proper procedures were not followed during their detention. Specifically, the arrested individuals were allegedly denied timely access to legal counsel and medical attention.
In addition, video evidence and firsthand accounts from protestors indicate the use of pepper spray and force by police officers against demonstrators who were not engaging in violence. Eyewitnesses also reported that body cameras—required by law to be active during public operations—were not turned on by many officers on the ground.
Media Obstruction Allegations
Members of the press covering the May Day protest reported being obstructed in their duties. Several journalists claimed they were physically blocked, pulled aside, or had their equipment interfered with while clearly displaying media credentials. Live broadcasts from the scene were reportedly jammed or cut short, and photojournalists were prevented from documenting key moments of the protest.
Lack of Civil Society Response and Transparency
Unlike in past cases involving protest suppression or rights violations, leading civil society organizations have so far not issued public statements regarding the events surrounding Yumn’s case or the protest response.
The government has established a presidential commission to investigate procedural lapses in the case, but no findings or updates have been made public as of mid-May. Calls for an independent inquiry by an external body have been circulated informally among activists and legal professionals, though not yet taken up by parliament or the judiciary.
With mounting concerns and limited official transparency, the public continues to demand answers. At present, neither police leadership nor government ministries have addressed the full scope of the allegations.
