Maldives News

Maldives anti-corruption watchdog assessed

Only one corruption-related case reached conviction between 2010 and 2014 despite 175 cases being submitted for prosecution by the Anti-Corruption Commission.

Dhidhoo council president suspended over housing ministry row

The council president of Dhidhoo island in northern Haa Alif atoll has been suspended in connection with a pending investigation related to newly built housing units on the island.

Suspension lifted for sixteen more lawyers

The suspension was reportedly lifted after the lawyers formally apologised in writing to the apex court for signing a petition calling for judicial reform.

Maldives ministry stats show rising child sexual abuse

Man arrested for ‘taking part’ in fatal stabbing

A 23-year-old has been arrested for “physically taking part” in the murder of a man in Hulhumalé, police said Sunday, but they refused to comment on whether they were looking for anyone else who might have been involved.

Four arrested with ‘party drugs’ after death of two youth

Ahmed Haameen, from the island of Thimarafushi in Thaa atoll, and Fathmath Sama, from the capital Malé, were pronounced dead on arrival at the Hulhumalé hospital around 8:30 pm on Thursday night

Young man murdered in Hulhumalé

The police conducted a security operation in Malé after a 23-year-old man was also stabbed in a gang fight near the parliament house around 11:30 pm last night.

‘Hahdhu’ film touches upon controversial issues in the Maldives

Flogging. Pre-marital sex. Suicide. Maverick film-maker Abdul Faththaah’s latest flick touches on taboo subjects in the Maldives.

Housing minister departs for China for bridge beams

Muiz told reporters at the airport that he would “watch the fabrication work at the factory, seek detailed information, meet with engineers, and see how the work is going.”

Rising European tourist numbers offset dwindling Chinese market

Tourist arrivals to the Maldives increased by 5.9 percent as traditional European markets offset a decline in Chinese holidaymakers.

Almost 100 expats detained for screening

Nadheem murdered as part of ‘revenge’ killing: police

Chief Station Inspector Mohamed Samih told the press that the 24-year-old’s murder was part of a series of killings and as “revenge stemming from a feud between two groups.”

Maldives downplays UK warning of ‘very likely’ terror attack

Playing down the United Kingdom’s updated travel advice to the country which said terrorists were “very likely” to carry out an attack, the ambassador to the UK stressed the tropical paradise “remains one of the safest destinations in the world”.

Short films aim for big change

Maldivian-made films on mental health, gender equality and plastic pollution will debut on social media Wednesday following a joint project between a United Nations body and telecoms firm Dhiraagu.

Security forces descend on Villigili for Yameen visit

Hundreds of police and soldiers descended on Gaafu Alif atoll Villingili ahead of a visit from President Abdulla Yameen, cracking down on opposition protesters by removing banners and placards.

Final flat winners list made public despite ongoing corruption probe

The housing minister on Wednesday defended a decision to publish an anonymous list of flat winners as a corruption probe continued into the social housing scheme and despite thousands of people complaining about its lack of transparency.

Gasim unable to return after 20-day medical leave, says family

“He actually cannot leave. As doctors have not authorised for him to fly, the airlines are refusing to sell tickets for him. We also requested that the MCS medical board review their decision,” said defence lawyer Hisaan Hussain.

President opens expanded Kooddoo airport and new resort

The runway of the privately-managed airport was lengthened from 1,200 to 1,800 meters to accommodate the Airbus A320, the Boeing 737, and private jets such as the Bombardier Global 5000. A new VIP lounge and two staff accommodation blocks were also part of the upgrading project.

Judge refuses to release MP Faris as bribery trial begins

At today’s preliminary hearing, the MP for Dhiggaru pleaded not guilty to the bribery charge after sparring with the state prosecutor, who was unable to say when he gave the bribe or how much money was involved.

Heightened security at Maldives airport ‘a precautionary measure’

Local media has meanwhile reported the arrest of a Maldivian on suspicion of planning a terrorist attack in collaboration with the Islamic State militant group.