Authorities Investigate Public Humiliation of Theft Suspect in Maafushi
A man covered in white paint following accusations of theft | Photo: Social Media
Authorities have launched an investigation after a man accused of robbing a shop in K. Maafushi was subjected to public humiliation, with paint poured over his body and a sign labelling him a thief placed in his hands.
The Maldives Police Service confirmed that the incident took place on Tuesday and has since garnered widespread attention following the circulation of videos on social media. In the footage, individuals are seen pouring paint on the suspect’s head and covering his entire body, before forcing him to hold a sign that read, “I am a thief.” The man was later seen sitting on a street before police officers arrived and removed him from the area.
advertisement
advertisement
advertisement
Police have stated that no arrests have been made in relation to the public humiliation. While the individual remains a suspect in the alleged shop robbery, police confirmed that the treatment he received is also the subject of a separate investigation.
The Human Rights Commission of the Maldives (HRCM) has condemned the act, describing it as degrading and inhumane, irrespective of the allegations against the individual. The commission urged the public not to share videos of the incident, citing concerns over human dignity and the importance of upholding due process.
HRCM also warned against vigilantism, noting that acts of public punishment undermine the legal system and violate fundamental human rights.
