MDP Activist Arrested for Inciting Arson and Looting

Police in the Maldives have arrested Ali Jumaan, a 25-year-old activist from the Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP), on suspicion of inciting arson and looting. The arrest was made under a court order on Thursday, October 22, 2026. According to a police statement, Jumaan is accused of using social media to encourage arson attacks on several buildings and vehicles in the Maldives, as well as the looting of a shop. The suspect, from Haa Alif Atoll Baarash, was taken into custody following the court order. Police said the investigation into the case is ongoing. The arrest comes shortly after the arrest of former deputy minister Hassan Zihan, who was also charged with inciting arson on social media. Zihan was previously remanded for 15 days by the Fuvahmulah Magistrate Court.