Maldives Police Service has apprehended Irufan Rushdhee, a suspect involved in a 2016 murder case.
The arrest was made days after Presidential Commission on Investigation of Murder and Enforced Disappearances asked the public for information regarding his whereabouts.
The arrest was made when a distress call was made after a speed boat ran out of fuel and was left stranded at sea, according to the police. Assistance was provided to the speed boat and the 4 people on-board were safely transported to Thinadhoo, Gaafu Dhaalu Atoll. The police identified one of the individuals as Irufan Rushdhee and took him into custody, along with his companions.
Irufan is believed to be involved in the murder of 14-year-old Fathir Mohamed Ali on June 3, 2016. The commission mentioned Maldives Immigration has said the suspect left Maldives in 2015 and had not returned. Despite the claims, the commission revealed the suspect was seen at the scene of the murder in 2016, adding the authorities have been unable to locate or apprehend him in over 3 years.
Back in 2016, Maldives Police Service has also announced seeking public support in apprehending the suspect. However, the police said it received no information on his whereabouts in the past 3 years.