News

Criminal cases lodged at Police during Ramadan declines

Maldives Police Service reports a decline in number of cases lodged at the authority during the first 15 days of Ramadan in comparison to last year's figures.

According to statistical data collected by the police authority the number of cases lodged during the first 15 days of the Islamic holy month during 2017 reached 596 whereas in 2018 the figure dropped to 556.

Cases filed at individual officers last year mainly involved reports of public consumption of food by locals. In 2017 a total of 15 cases were reported resulting 18 individuals arrested for the offense while in 2018 the number declined to just 7 cases and 7 offenders apprehended.

Robbery or thieving, are included in the most common cases filed at Maldives authority during every Ramadan. While a total of 127 cases were reported this year, the number reached only 109 in 2017.

However, according to police the cases reported mainly involved low-level incidents without any major robbery incident.

Authorities have advised from the public to take precautionary action and always ensure to lock and secure the residences and belongings.

Furthermore Maldives Police had requested for full public support and cooperation in dealing with thievery and robbery issues since such offenses are executed with prior planning.