The main opposition Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP) has claimed that based on the information received, it is believed that there was negligence in properly monitoring the activities of Adam Athuhar, who killed himself inside his prison cell, and taking timely action.

In a press release expressing concern over the death of Adam Athuhar while in police custody, the opposition party expressed concern regarding the way police handled the situation when Athuhar, who was arrested and remanded for taking a woman hostage, threatening and assaulting her at knifepoint, was taken into police custody, and his subsequent suicide attempt while in custody at Dhoonidhoo Custodial Prison, after which he was brought to capital Malé for hospital treatment and passed away at some point on Monday.

MDP has also extended heartfelt condolences to the mourning family.

Acknowledging efforts of police officers in rescuing the woman during the hostage situation in the capital city, MDP stressed that how events unfolded have led to questions arising as to whether the police acted contrary to the established protocols for handling such situations.

Highlighting that it appears there was negligence in properly monitoring the activities of a person like Athuhar, who had suffered major issues, while in the cell as well as in taking timely and appropriate action.

MDP also noted that Minister of Homeland Security and Technology Ali Ihusaan’s claim that the investigation will not be conducted in accordance with the protocols established within the police for such matters affects the professionalism of the police.

Further, the party stated that they view this as support for MPS to work outside the legal framework.

MDP urged for an investigation to confirm whether the necessary assessments were completed before returning Athuhar to police custody in Dhoonidhoo, prior to the full recovery from the physical injuries sustained due to use of force.

According to information shared with journalists so far, it has been revealed that police officers reached Athuhar within 28 minutes from the point he began attempting suicide.

According to the available information, it appears there was negligence in monitoring and taking timely action regarding the activities of severely injured individuals like Athuhar in the cell, despite the legal obligation of the police to ensure the safety and security of everyone in their custody.

The party also highlighted the authorities' failure to provide accurate information to Athuhar’s family after he was rushed to IGMH for treatment. They emphasized that, in major incidents involving individuals in police custody, it is crucial that information about the detainee be communicated to their family.

While the information about this incident should be shared by the police service, it has been noted that it is concerning that the institution has not shared how things transpired so far.

MDP also noted that they believe the home minister taking the lead in sharing information about this incident, instead of the police institution, is seen as an obstruction to MPS fulfilling their legal responsibilities.

MDP has requested MPS to hold a presser as soon as possible, to clarify how this matter unfolded.

MDP emphasized that the police act outlines specific guidelines for the institution’s operation and expressed concern over the minister’s political interference, which they believe undermines the rule of law. The party also criticized the government’s actions, suggesting that they hinder the police from performing their legal duties and potentially foster a culture where the police operate above the law.

Rather than acting in this manner, MDP has urged the government to enhance efforts towards establishing a more modern and professional police institution.

In conclusion, the opposition called on all relevant authorities to conduct a thorough and independent investigation given the potential for negligence in Athuhar’s death, and to publicly disclose their findings.

Based on the results of these investigations, MDP has urged all agencies to implement measures to prevent similar incidents in the future