Maldivian man fined MVR 7,000 for assaulting younger sister

A Maldivian man has been sentenced to jail for assaulting his younger sister, with the court commuting the jail sentence to a fine.

The case relates to an incident that occurred in October 2024, for which the prosecution charged the man with assault.

During the proceedings, the defendant admitted to the charges brought against him, resulting in the case being fast-tracked. According to the case report, the man assaulted his sister by grabbing her by the throat and throwing her to the ground. The report also stated that he caused further injuries by pulling her hair.

Under the Penal Code, causing physical pain, illness, or bodily impairment to another person constitutes assault. The offense is broadly divided into two categories: simple assault and assault involving a dangerous weapon or resulting in grievous bodily harm.

Simple assault is generally classified as a first-degree misdemeanor, carrying a basic sentence of four months and 24 days in prison. Assault involving a dangerous weapon or resulting in serious injury is classified as a fourth-degree felony, with a basic sentence of one year, seven months, and six days in imprisonment.

In this case, the Criminal Court initially sentenced the man to one month and six days in prison. However, the court later commuted the sentence to a fine of MVR 7,200. The defendant has been given three months to pay the fine.