A foreigner who was held hostage has been rescued and a suspect was arrested on Thursday (February 19).

The matter was reported to police at 1:22 am and police rescued the foreigner at 2:29 am.

Police said 35-year-old Bangladeshi national Iqbal Mia was arrested in connection with the case. He was ordered to be remanded in custody for 30 days.

Iqbal Mia was living in the Maldives without the valid permits and visas. Police said further investigation was underway.