Local held hostage in Pakistan arrested upon arrival in Maldives after escaping

A Maldivian youth who was taken to Pakistan on false pretenses, and held hostage, was arrested upon arrival in the Maldives after escaping.

Police suspect the 22-year-old youth from B. Goidhoo of attempting to traffic drugs into the Maldives, and aiding in traffic of drugs into the Maldives.

Although the date on which the police arrested the youth is unclear – Criminal Court extended the youth’s remand by additional 10 days on Wednesday.

In the remand hearing, the youth claimed that being sent to Pakistan on false pretenses. The youth detailed that upon his arrival in the country, he was held captive by a group of people. He said he had returned to Maldives after escaping his captors.

His remand was extended by 10 days as the Police have yet to obtain his statement. His statement has not yet been obtained as he has yet to appoint a lawyer. Although he was previously granted the opportunity to appoint a lawyer, he had been unsuccessful in his efforts. Therewith, it has been decided that the state will appoint an attorney for him, who will assist him in the case.

Similar cases of Maldivians involved in drug businesses being sent abroad on false pretenses to be held captive, often a as guarantee of payment, have surfaced before as well.