According to police, the assault is believed to have been the result of a family dispute. A 30 year-old man has since been taken into police custody.

Local media reported that the suspect, Mohamed Najah, was the brother of the Shaviyani Komandoo MPs’ wife. Najah had a criminal record for drug abuse and assault.

Following treatment at the ADK hospital, the condition of the mother and child is reportedly stable. The girl is however being monitored at the intensive care unit as a precaution.