Gang violence in Addu City escalates with 2 brutal attacks in 24hrs

Victims of gang violence attack in Addu City | Photo: Addulive

Addu City, Maldives – Two violent attacks have taken place in Addu city in the span of 24 hours.

The first attack was reported to Maldives Police service at 12:08 on Friday, 18 September 2021, when a 29 year old man was stabbed in the head with a local machete also known as “kathivalhi” near Addu City flats. The victim is to be transported to Malé for further treatment after being taken to the Addu Hospital for emergency treatment.

Local news reports extensive injuries to the head, with heavy bleeding observed in pictures obtained by the press.

The second violent attack was reported to the police at 20:05 on the same day when two people riding on a motorcycle were attacked with a sharp object at Hithadhoo district. A 27 year old male and 23 year old female were injured in the attack according to police. Local news reports that the victims are a married couple and the injured woman is pregnant.

Local news Mihaaru reports that the attacks are related to gang violence. The most recent series of attacks are reportedly in retaliation against an incident that took place two weeks ago.

Addu Mayor Ali Nizar has also stated that the two gangs in question have a history of violence. He said that the police and authorities are working together to bring relative peace to Addu City after the gang violence.

The police are investigating both cases.