Maldives Police Service (MPS) has confirmed the arrest of three individuals in connection to the brutal murder of an entrepreneur in Dhangethi island of Alif Dhaal atoll.

Police did not officially confirm any arrests in connection to the murder until Friday evening. Earlier reports indicated that two individuals were taken into police custody in connection to the case, on Thursday. They are both native to Thoddoo island in Alif Alif atoll.

RaajjeMV understands that the suspects of the murder had travelled to Mahibadhoo island in Alif Dhaal atoll. Responding to claims that the suspects had gone to Mahibadhoo willingly, police revealed that they were taken under police protection.

The three suspects currently in policy custody are to be questioning regarding a case under investigation. Police did not specify whether the case being probed is that of Mahmood’s murder.

The body of the brutally slain entrepreneur was transported back to the island, following forensic examinations on Friday.

The body of Mahmood Aboobakuru, 57, was transferred to capital Malé City, to conduct forensic examinations. A CT scan and additional tests were conducted at Indhira Gandhi Memorial Hospital on Friday morning.

Due to the unforgiving weather, authorities had sought assistance from the Maldives National Defense Force (MNDF)’s Coastguard in transporting the body to Malé and back.

Media official at the Maldives Police Service (MPS) confirmed to RaajjeMV that the body has been taken back.

His funeral rites are to take place in the island.

The body was found suspended inside a well, tied up and stuffed inside a sack. Dhangethi Council President Muaaviyath Rasheed revealed that Mahmood was a good man and a successful entrepreneur who did not have any issues with anyone.

Mahmood used to supply food staples to the island community and owned a café and boat as well. He was last seen on Wednesday night and never returned home after going to see the SAFF Championship match that night. With this, the family had informed the council. The council revealed that the entire island was left staggered by the murder. It is believed that Mahmood was tortured before being murdered.

Mahmood is survived by four children.