Human Rights Commission of the Maldives (HRCM) has stated the conditions at Asseyri Prison is insufficient to detain minors.
In a press release, HRCM said its investigation into a complaint has revealed the detention centre for minors established at the prison does not meet standards. The commission stated the conditions at the detention centre violates the established laws and the international codes of conduct the Maldives is a party to.
Additionally, HRCM stated it was informed by the Maldives Correctional Service (MCS) in 2020 that the construction of a new youth detention centre at Asseyri Prison would be completed within three months. The commission found that construction had still not been completed during its visit to Asseyri Prison in September.
HRCM stated it has recommended MCS to transfer minors to a safer environment within 30 days from October 14, and to no longer jail minors at the current detention centre in Asseyri Prison. In response to the press release, MCS stated it is working on implementing the recommendations within the set deadline.