The Maldives Correctional Services (MCS) has kept an inmate from attending the funeral of a grandparent, despite having filed all the necessary documents and making transport arrangements.

The inmate is in custody until criminal proceedings involving a drug trafficking charge against him is concluded.

His grandmother passed away on the early hours of Monday and the funeral was held after afternoon prayers. His lawyers had filed documents seeking permission from the service, along with the relative’s death certificate.

The inmate’s family had made all the necessary preparations for his transport to the capital city, and his lawyer had repeatedly called officers after a letter he sent in this regard went without a response.

The inmate was finally granted permission to attend the funeral at about 1:20 pm on Monday, nearly an hour after afternoon prayers, and according to the family, after his grandmother had already been buried.

The Maldives Correctional Services had not responded to calls at the time of publishing.