Police probe Quran teacher’s call for violence against MDP protesters
The police statement comes after growing public criticism over the delay in addressing Shuaib’s post.
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The Maldives Police Service has confirmed that it is investigating the case of Quran teacher Shuaib Ali, who posted on Facebook calling for protesters from the opposition Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP) to be shot.
The police statement comes after growing public criticism over the delay in addressing Shuaib’s post, particularly as the authorities have taken swift action in other cases involving opposition activists.
When asked about the case, a police media officer confirmed that the investigation was ongoing, adding that “police are taking all necessary steps to investigate the matter.” The officer did not confirm whether Shuaib had been summoned for questioning.
On 3 October, Shuaib wrote on Facebook: “If the protesters violate the permission, they should be beaten down and shot.” The post was later deleted, but screenshots and links shared before its removal continue to circulate online.
The police have also seized the phones of two female MDP activists over social media posts allegedly inciting violence. They include:
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Fathimath Zahiyya (Zaya), MDP National Assembly member, whose phone was seized under a 72-hour court order.
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Aishath Shiman Ahmed, a youth activist, whose phone was confiscated under an order lasting from 6 October to 5 November.
Under Article 124 of the Penal Code, it is an offence to incite violence or injury against individuals based on their political opinions, race, or religion. The crime is classified as a fifth-degree felony, carrying a minimum sentence of nine months and 18 days in prison and a maximum of two years if aggravating factors are present.
The police have not disclosed whether any charges have been filed against Shuaib Ali at this stage.
