Video shows senior HDC official restraining woman and assaulting man

Jun 24, 2026, 3:13 PM
Ismail Abdul Rahman (Isu).

Ismail Abdul Rahman (Isu).

A video has surfaced on social media appearing to show Ismail Abdul Raheem (Isu), the Deputy Director of Hulhumale Operations at the Housing Development Corporation (HDC), restraining a woman and assaulting her companion in the Hulhumale' Phase 3 area.

The footage, which has been circulating on X, shows Isu initiating an assault on a man. He is then seen physically preventing a woman who was with the man from leaving the scene.

Adhadhu understands that a 21-year-old man was involved in the altercation alongside Isu. While the man was arrested and remanded in custody for five days, the public has raised concerns over the lack of action against Isu, who remains free despite his involvement in the incident.

When questioned about the video, the Maldives Police Service said they are conducting a thorough investigation into the assault, which includes questioning relevant individuals and examining all aspects of the case.

Isu has previously faced serious allegations regarding the high-profile murders of journalist Ahmed Rilwan Abdulla and blogger Yameen Rasheed. He was also charged in connection with Rilwan’s case. 

More recently, Isu has been seen as a supporter of President Mohamed Muizzu and has been an active figure in the People’s National Congress (PNC) election campaigns. He has also previously sought internal leadership positions within the ruling party.

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