Two men have been arrested in Malé for carrying sharp weapons in public, the Maldives Police Service (MPS) confirmed.

The suspects have been identified as 21-year-old Mohamed Haikal Abdulla of Seenu Meedhoo, and 33-year-old Mohamed Areef of Gaafu Dhaalu Hoandedhdhoo.

During the court hearing to decide on their remand, the court ordered a 15-day detention for both individuals. According to the court order, authorities recovered a sword, a knife, and a surgical knife from Areef. Police noted in court that Areef failed to provide a reasonable explanation for possessing these weapons.

Haikal, arrested alongside Areef, denied any connection to the weapons found in Areef’s possession.

The court ruled that releasing the two men could pose a threat to public safety, justifying their remand.