Court extends detention of man accused of inciting violence over Ras Malé project

A court has extended the detention of a 25-year-old man by another 15 days over allegations that he used social media to call for vandalism, torching and looting in opposition to the government's Ras Malé development project involving Eagle Hills.

Ali Jumaan, 25, from Kullavahge, HA. Baarah, was arrested on 22 October in connection with a post published on X under the account name "Dethu".

The post allegedly called for attacks on government buildings and vehicles, as well as the looting of Redwave, a business owned by Deputy Speaker of Parliament and ruling People's National Congress (PNC) Eydhafushi MP Ahmed Saleem, also known as Redwave Saleem.

Jumaan is being investigated on suspicion of terrorism in connection with the post.

Following his arrest, he was initially remanded in custody for 12 days. When he was presented before a court for a remand review on Wednesday, the court ordered his detention to be extended by a further 15 days.

According to the remand order, the court found that sufficient evidence had been presented in relation to the alleged offence.

Police also submitted an intelligence report concerning the X account named "Dethu", which investigators believe belongs to Jumaan.

The court order further noted that the investigation had been requested by parties with an interest in the case, who had submitted a letter and supporting documentation.

The court cited concerns that releasing Jumaan could pose a threat to public safety as grounds for extending his detention.

Jumaan was previously among nine people arrested during a protest organised by the opposition Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP) in May.

The latest investigation concerns allegations arising from the social media post opposing the proposed involvement of Eagle Hills in the Ras Malé development project.

The allegations against Jumaan remain under investigation and have not been proven in court.