Cannot reveal any information over Rilwan’s abduction: Police

Maldives Police Service (MPS) says that the investigation into the abduction of missing journalist Ahmed Rilwan is ongoing and therefore, cannot reveal any information on the case.

Police said that the investigation into the abduction was ongoing. However, Police did not confirm whether any arrests have been made in connection to the case. Police added that they will release a general statement regarding the case.

Rilwan was abducted on August 8, 2014. Initially, Police had denied that there was any connection between the abduction, the knife and red car that were in the same area as his residence. However, almost a year after his abduction, Police had confirmed that the two items were connected to his disappearance. Additionally, Police had also said that a hair sample found in the car, matched to the DNA of Rilwan’s mother.

Prior to his abduction, Police said Rilwan’s movements had been tracked extensively. Five were arrested but released later due to lack of evidence. Police then said that Mohamed Suwaid, a key figure in the operation, had departed the country.

One of the most vocal individuals calling to find Rilwan and his best friend, Yameen Rasheed was murdered in April. Police is investigating the murder and so far seven have been arrested.