Motorcyclist with 13 previous unlicensed riding cases arrested after crash

Police have arrested a 27-year-old motorcyclist in connection with a collision involving two motorcycles in Hulhumalé Phase 2 earlier this month that left five people injured, including two who required intensive care.

The accident occurred on Nirolhu Magu when a motorcycle carrying three people, in violation of traffic regulations, collided with another motorcycle carrying two people.

The two people travelling on the second motorcycle sustained serious injuries, while all three people on the motorcycle carrying more passengers than permitted were also injured.

Police said on Wednesday that the rider of the motorcycle carrying three people was arrested on Monday after being discharged from hospital following treatment for his injuries.

The suspect was identified as Mohamed Saif, 27, of Irumatheege, L. Maamendhoo.

The court has ordered that he be remanded in custody for seven days.

According to police, Saif has a record of 13 previous cases involving riding a motorcycle without a valid driving licence.

Police said his record also includes offences involving unpaid annual vehicle fees, roadworthiness charges and insurance, as well as using a communication device while riding.

The two people travelling on the motorcycle involved in the collision were admitted to the intensive care unit at Indira Gandhi Memorial Hospital (IGMH) because of the severity of their injuries.

Police have not confirmed whether the two patients have since been discharged from hospital.

The two injured individuals are male members of the same family.