Hoarafushi council says man injured by minors is in stable condition

The victim of an altercation involving three minors at the Juvenile Halfway House, a temporary juvenile residential treatment centre in HA. Hoarafushi, is in stable condition, the island council said Wednesday.

Hoarafushi Council President Mohamed Afsam, speaking on behalf of the victim’s family, told Sun that the injured man is recovering. “They mentioned they will consult an orthopedic doctor and some blood tests,” Afsam said.

Afsam said the incident began when three minors residing at the Halfway House argued with a man who had been fishing on the beach. According to reports shared with the council, the man attempted to flee when the minors allegedly assaulted him.

He said the victim sustained injuries after being struck with rocks and fists, based on information received from those familiar with the incident. The man was treated at Hoarafushi Health Centre and may be transferred for further care.

Afsam said no action has yet been taken against the minors involved. He added that State Minister for Homeland Security Ahmed Siddique is currently in Hoarafushi to assess the situation.

The council has previously raised concerns about the management of the temporary residential treatment centre, Afsam said.

Maldives Police Service said they are investigating a reported incident that occurred on Tuesday evening involving three minors who left the centre and allegedly attacked an islander.

Videos circulating on social media show a crowd gathered outside the Halfway House on Tuesday night in protest. Posts accompanying the videos claim the victim was later found inside a vacant house, though police have not confirmed this detail.