HRCM launches probe into Maafushi Council President’s injury during protest arrest

The Human Rights Commission of Maldives (HRCM) has initiated an investigation into the injury sustained by K. Maafushi Council President Hassan Solah during his arrest at a mass protest organized by the main opposition Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP) on the night of October 3 in the capital Malé City.

Solah reportedly suffered a serious finger injury while being detained by police at the protest, which was attended by thousands of demonstrators. HRCM has confirmed that it is investigating the incident as a suo motu case, launched by the commission independently. However, no further details have been made public.

According to Solah’s legal representative, the injury occurred when a police officer ran from behind and forcefully grabbed him as he was being placed into a police vehicle. The lawyer also stated that Solah was denied immediate medical attention, despite repeated requests, and was only treated at the Police Noosandha Clinic 26 hours after his arrest. In addition to the finger injury, Solah reportedly suffered trauma to his rib cage and has alleged that he was subjected to police brutality despite offering no resistance during his arrest.

In response, the Maafushi Council issued a press statement condemning Solah’s arrest and demanded his immediate release. The council reiterated that the rights to peaceful assembly and freedom of expression are fundamental and must be protected.

Solah is among six individuals whose detention was extended by 15 days by the Criminal Court. Others include former parliamentarians Yaugoob Abdulla and Yasir Abdul Latheef, along with Ali Juman, Azeem Ali, and Hassan Shakir, all arrested during the same protest.

The October 3 demonstration marked the largest anti-government protest since President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu took office. Protesters accused the administration of constitutional overreach, eroding institutional independence, and misappropriating public funds. When demonstrators attempted to march along Majeedhee Magu, police intervened with aggressive tactics, including the use of pepper spray and sonic weapons. Observers and participants widely criticized the force used by police as excessive and disproportionate to the situation.

This incident adds to growing concerns about escalating police violence, the suppression of political dissent, and the apparent erosion of civil liberties under the current administration.