Maldives Police Service (MPS) has urged the public to refrain from engaging in acts of vigilantism to punish criminals.
In a tweet, MPS highlighted recent incidents of vigilantism in which groups of people engaged in inhumane and degrading acts to punish individuals accused of crimes. The police service stated that the Constitution of the Maldives and the established laws and regulations have clearly defined the procedures in which criminals are to be prosecuted and punished.
MPS expressed concern over the incidents of vigilantism, stating that such acts are in violation of the rules and regulations. It urged the public to refrain from participating in vigilantism, warning that action will be taken against those who do.
Incidents of vigilantism that have occurred in the Maldives mainly involved groups of people attacking individuals accused of sexual violence and theft. MPS has arrested those involved in acts of vigilantism and is investigating such incidents.