Ex-MP Mohamed Ismail arrested in ‘India Out’ probe

Former Hoarafushi MP Mohamed Ismail was arrested under court order on Wednesday afternoon, on suspicion of involvement in the ‘India Out’ movement.

According to the arrest warrant, Mohamed Ismail is being held on suspicion of committing crimes under Section 533 (a) of the Penal Code - knowingly obstructs, impairs, or perverts the administration of law or other governmental function, and Section 615 of the Penal Code – disorderly conduct.

The police believe Mohamed Ismail is involved in expanding and recruiting more people for the ‘India Out’ movement, a political campaign led by the opposition to protest against Indian military presence in Maldives.

He is also accused of obstructing efforts by state authorities to stop the movement, and preparing banners, drawings and documents linked to the ‘India Out’ movement, and distributing it within Male’ and to other islands.

Mohamed Ismail’s actions were having a negative impact on international relations, and the diplomatic and cultural relations with neighboring countries, reads the arrest warrant.

The warrant also states that Mohamed Ismail had an arrest record for vandalizing a state-owned property with ‘India Out’ graffiti, and had been granted conditional release in the case.

However, given that he continues to repeat such actions, there’s clear risk continuing to allow him to roam free within the community could damage public order and national interest and security, reads the warrant.

The arrest warrant states that the ‘India Out’ movement would incite fear and hate between the people of Maldives and India, and could create conflict.

President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih issued a decree banning the ‘India Out’ movement on April 21, deeming it a threat to national security.

All state institutions have been instructed to enforce the decree.

A police spokesperson said that two people have been arrested on suspicion of planning and organizing the ‘India Out’ movement; a 48-year-old male and a 42-year-old male.