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Recent escalation in violent crimes cannot be politicised: Police

Maldives Police Service has stated the current surge in violent crimes does not have any connection with politics. The police service made the statement in a press conference held following the fatal stabbing of a 14 year old.

Noting some people are trying to politicise the recent escalation in violent crimes, Chief Superintendent of Police Ahmed Shifan assured none of the violent crimes were either participated by or ordered by politicians. In this regard, Police Spokesperson Shifan called on citizens to refrain from any activity that might plunge the country into chaos. Shifan said if history is taken into account, political issues have paved way to increase violence on the streets.

Drawing examples from the political upheavals of 2012 and 2013, Shifan said both instances saw a surge in violent crimes in their wake. Referring to the recent escalation in violent crimes Shifan revealed 32 suspects were arrested out of which 17 still remain in police custody.

At the press conference Shifan said statistics show a relative decrease in the number of violent crimes reported with three fatalities. On behalf of the police institution, Shifan appealed for the support of all citizens to maintain peace in the country.