Female suspect arrested in intimidation, kidnapping case

The Criminal Court has sentenced a 15-day remand on a female suspect arrested for the involvement in a case of kidnapping and intimidation.

Authorities arrested Aishath Malja Moosa, 27, from Addu City Maradhoo for her suspected involvement. The court sentenced her remand from Thursday last week until September 20, 2024.

The suspect holds criminal priors according to Maldives Police Service.

The incident took place on August 26th. The victim in the incident was stopped near Indira Gandhi Memorial Hospital (IGMH) around 21:30 by the suspect, who invited him to her room.

The man was invited to a guesthouse located at Muranga Magu, Maafannu ward. After he entered the room, Malja along with another man allegedly robbed the victim of his phone, cash card and withdrew MVR 53,000 from his account.

Criminal Court in its remand hearing observed substantial evidence presented against the suspect, which includes an incident report from a police witness who attended the crime scene, the victim's statement and photo report.

The court in its remand order further observed Malja's arrest was necessary to ensure public safety.

Robbery and theft have been rising at an alarming rate in the Maldives recently. On Wednesday last week, robbers broke and entered a Maafannu residence threatening to kill its residents if they did not comply.

Authorities arrested two suspects in the case while the court ordered a 15-day remand on both.