Taxi Drivers Granted Conditional Release Following Protest in Hulhumale’

The Hulhumale’ Magistrate Court granted conditional release to two taxi drivers who had been remanded in custody for five days following their arrest during a protest held last Wednesday.

The drivers, identified as Mohamed Shamin, aged 39, of Ma. Viraar, Malé, and Ahmed Shabeen, aged 33, of Sun Ray, L. Dhanbidhoo, were released after successfully appealing their remand at the High Court. Shamin’s lawyer, Aik Ahmed Easa, a member of the Maldivian Democratic Party’s legal team, confirmed the court’s decision.

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As part of the release conditions, Shamin is required to comply with all laws and cooperate with the ongoing investigation. He is also subject to a travel ban, is prohibited from participating in protests, and must not influence evidence related to the case.

Two other individuals were arrested in connection with the same protest. Nu’uman Ahmed, aged 36, of Holiday Village, HDh. Kumundhoo, and Misbaar Shareef, aged 31, of Ma. Naheedhee Manzil, Malé, were also detained. Nu’uman has since been granted conditional release, while Misbaar’s status remains unclear.

The taxi drivers’ protest began at 6:30 PM on Wednesday evening. The drivers expressed dissatisfaction with the government’s failure to address their concerns, despite having raised them over a year ago.

Initially peaceful, the protest escalated when drivers blocked the Hulhumalé highway, which resulted in severe traffic congestion. Police officers intervened to disperse the protesters and reopen the road. During the operation, police towed 22 taxis involved in the protest and arrested four individuals for failing to comply with orders.

The Drivers Association of Maldives (DAM) disputed the police’s claims, stating that the protest remained peaceful and did not involve blocking roads. According to the association, the traffic congestion was caused by police actions as drivers were attempting to leave the area. The DAM expressed concern over the towing of taxis, claiming that some of the seized vehicles were not involved in the protest.

The association also criticised the lack of communication from the police regarding why some vehicles were towed. The incident has caused significant challenges for drivers, particularly those whose vehicles were impounded despite not participating in the demonstration.