Maldives Police Service (MPS) has stated that there is no link between the counter-terrorism operation conducted in Addu City and the recent fire incidents.
Speaking to PSM News, Commissioner of Police Mohamed Hameed said the fire incident at the auction shop in Male' City and the previous fire incidents across the county are under investigation and the latest findings do not indicate arson. He added that an international team is assisting in the investigation of major fire incidents.
Additionally, Commissioner Hameed said there is no link between the recent fire incidents and the arrests made in the Addu counter-terrorism operation, after which threats were made to call for the release of the suspects. He, however, said that security services and the relevant institutions are strengthening security measures and that action is being taken against those who made the threats. He further noted that areas in Male’ that are at risk of fire need to be identified and urged the public to provide information regarding any plot to commit arson.
A total of 13 suspects were arrested in the counter-terrorism operation conducted in Addu in November 2022. Afterward, posters were pasted in various places in the city, warning authorities to release the suspects.