Aishath Shiman Ahmed and Abdullah Mahzoom Majid, arrested in connection with the nightly protests demanding justice for Hawwa Yumnu Rasheed, 21, who was found on a rooftop with critical injuries, have been released.
The youth leaders were arrested on May 1 for allegedly disobeying police orders. Mahzoom is also accused of attempting to attack a police officer.
At the remand hearing on Friday, Shiman, 19, and Mahzoom, 28, were detained for three days based on police statements.
"[Shiman was arrested] for breaking police lines and trying to leave," the investigating officer told the court.
The protest was streaming live and did not show protesters, including Shiman and Mahzoom, disobeying the police.
However, dozens of police officers were seen pushing through the protestors without any warning and charging at Shiman and Mahzoom.
Witnesses said police used excessive force in making the arrests and both Shiman and Mahzoom sustained various injuries.
Shiman and Mahzoom joined protestors immediately after their release.
The opposition Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP), the Democrats and other political figures condemned police action and demanded their release.
Immediately after their release on Saturday night, Shiman and Mahzoom joined protestors at the Carnival area in Male.
It is the eleventh night of youth demonstrations over the response to Yumnu's fall. Protestors are demanding a fair investigation and accountability.
