Maafushi Prison returns to normalcy after COVID outbreak quelled

Maafushi Prison has returned to normalcy after the COVID-19 outbreak which hit the prison in January was successfully stamped out. 

The COVID-19 outbreak at Maafushi Prison was detected after 11 samples taken on January 13 came back positive for COVID-19. Emergency status was invoked at the prison the next day, prompting additional restrictions.    

In-person family visits, lawyer visits and court hearings were suspended and changed to virtual meetings and hearings.   

High-risk inmates were transferred to home confinement on January 27. 

Maldives Correctional Service announced on Thursday that all inmates who tested positive for COVID-19 had recovered, and that the emergency status has been lifted and the prison has returned to normalcy. 

The agency said that family visits, lawyer visits and court hearings will therefore be held in accordance with the new standard procedure.