Police arrested jailed Adhadhu journalist Mohamed Shahzan's brother, his aunt, a senior member of the Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP) and others during the ongoing protests calling for the release of journalists and political detainees.
The demonstration commenced in front of former President Abdulla Yameen’s residence in Male'. Protesters marched north along Boduthakurufaanu Magu and were proceeding down Majeedhee Magu when they were intercepted near the Sergeant Adam Haleem Investigation Building by police in riot gear deployed with shields.
The first individual taken into custody was Ibrahim Fauzan (Bob), an employee of the Male' City Council. He is the brother of Adhadhu journalist Mohamed Shahzan, who is currently serving a 15-day prison sentence for contempt of court after he posed a question to President Mohamed Muizzu.
Police also detained Hussain Hassan, a former journalist who represents the Villingili constituency on the National Council of the main opposition MDP. The third person taken into custody was Shahzan's aunt Haleemath Zuhaira, a prominent activist from former President Yameen’s People’s National Front (PNF).
Large numbers of police officers continue to be deployed nightly to obstruct these demonstrations. Three other individuals remain in police custody from previous protests: Shammoon Jaleel (Lucas) is serving a 10-day remand, while Mohamed Shamin and Ali Mushaffau have been remanded for 15 days.
