Police seize MDP member's phone over Facebook post

Oct 8, 2025, 3:31 AM
Zayaa is a member of the Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP) National Council and the President of MDP Hulhumale' North Constituency. -- Photo: MDP

Zayaa is a member of the Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP) National Council and the President of MDP Hulhumale' North Constituency. -- Photo: MDP

Police have seized the phone of opposition party member Fathimath Zahiyya (Zayaa) in connection with a post on the social media platform Facebook.

Zayaa is a member of the Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP) National Council and the President of MDP Hulhumale' North Constituency.

Police searched Zayaa under a court warrant "for threatening police" and seized her mobile phone on Tuesday

The warrant mentioned the date and time of the Facebook post, which reads, "I've started preparing Kandoodhoo chilli spray to prepare for November 17. If they use pepper spray, I'll spray them back."

She tagged the Maldives Police Service on the post referring to the MDP rally announced for November 17.

On October 3, police used pepper spray indiscriminately and at close range, targeting thousands of demonstrators who tried to peacefully march on Majeedhee Magu.

Earlier on Monday, police threatened action against those who expose police brutality. Photos and videos of police officers who assaulted demonstrators are circulating on social media.

Meanwhile, a man who openly called to assault and kill the demonstrators has not faced any action from the police.

Shuaib Ali, a supporter of President Mohamed Muizzu's regime, shared a post on social media Facebook and called for assault and shooting at the demonstrators.

Police did not comment when questioned whether they were investigating the call for the killing of protesters. Adhadhu understands that he has not been arrested yet.

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