Two Bangladeshi Nationals Arrested in Male’ for Kidnapping and Ransom Demands
Two Bangladeshi men have been arrested in Male’ after allegedly kidnapping a fellow countryman and demanding ransom from his family. The Criminal Court has ordered that both suspects remain in custody while investigations continue.
The Incident and Arrest
Court documents identify the suspects as Sadigul Mia and Mohamed Azizul, both 37 years old. The victim, Mohamed Shajahan, was reportedly abducted in the early hours of Friday morning at around 12:40am. According to the court order, he was physically assaulted during the ordeal.
Police were alerted to the situation after receiving reports of the abduction. Investigators tracked Shajahan’s mobile phone signal, which led them to Ma. Ranauraa Goalhi in Male’. Officers then observed Shajahan exiting the SI Guesthouse in the same area. When questioned, Shajahan informed police that Azizul and several others had kidnapped and attacked him.
Upon entering a room at the guesthouse, police found Sadigul and Azizul inside. Both men were taken into custody on suspicion of assault and kidnapping.
Suspects’ Accounts
The court order reveals that Sadigul, who was employed in Thilafushi, had been living in the Maldives without a valid visa. He denied any involvement in kidnapping or assault.
Azizul, also without a valid visa, admitted to having struck Shajahan but claimed it was over unpaid wages. He told police that despite repeated requests, Shajahan had not settled his dues, and as a result, he brought him to the room and assaulted him.
Court Decision
The Criminal Court ruled that both suspects should be held in remand, citing the risk of them leaving the country if released. Investigations into the case are ongoing, and authorities have not disclosed whether additional suspects are being sought.
This case highlights recurring issues tied to undocumented foreign workers in the Maldives. Disputes over unpaid wages and workers remaining in the country without valid visas have often led to conflicts. Authorities have been increasing efforts to monitor and regulate foreign employment, especially in Male’ and industrial zones like Thilafushi.