Social.

On September 29, 2026, a 44-year-old man arrested under a court warrant for sexually abusing and intimidating a 72-year-old woman while she was praying in R. Angolhitheemu was remanded in custody for 15 days. Police also announced that 17-year-old Mohamed Ahyan Hussain, who had been reported missing from Lh. Naifaru, was found safely inside a house on the island. In addition, police have launched an investigation into the death of a person who was found unconscious on the second floor of a house on Buruzu Magu in Malé and brought to the hospital. Due to the increasing rate of serious road accidents, Commissioner of Police Ahmed Mohamed instructed that strict action be taken against repeat traffic violators. An amendment was brought to the Police Employment Regulations to provide a special medical benefit to the families of police officers who lose their lives in the line of duty. Additionally, police disposed of equipment used to manufacture cigarettes illegally. At the same time, work to repair potholes formed on Ameenee Magu was also carried out on this day. Furthermore, many people praised the fine example set by a group of children who took the initiative to distribute cold juice to expatriate workers. Information was shared with parents on the importance of using a secret code within the family to protect children from sudden dangers. In addition, important religious and social advice was shared regarding the ruling on placing phones with Quran applications on the ground, as well as the etiquettes of supplication (dua).

At a special ceremony held on the occasion of the 40th anniversary of Maldives Ports Limited (MPL), recognition awards were presented to employees who have served for over 35 years and those who have retired. A special coordinating committee has been formed to run the national initiative to show honor and respect. The Ministry of Defence has extended the deadline until 27 October to obtain permits for registering dangerous chemical storage warehouses and for sales via the "Makudi" portal. In a dangerous accident that occurred on the Haa Alif Hoarafushi airport road when the rear tire of a motorcycle burst causing it to lose control, two women aged 43 and 36 suffered serious injuries. STELCO has now restored the electricity supply that had been interrupted in some areas of Hulhumale' Phase 1.

The Criminal Court on September 27 remanded two Nepalese nationals, Nikka Tamang and Itrani Galey, into custody for 30 days for smuggling over 1.5 kilograms of drugs ingested into their stomachs. Police have begun investigating an issue concerning the arrest and detention of a person who defiled a mosque in Malé. Police are investigating a case in which 150,000 Rufiyaa was stolen from beneath a motorcycle seat. Police are also looking into an accident involving an MNDF car near the Fish Market. Police have begun efforts to take special measures to prevent gang crimes. Police have announced that they have begun taking legal action against pedestrians walking on the Hulhulé-Hulhumalé Link Road. Police revealed that the fire in the building housing three government ministries was caused by electrical issues previously noted in the Geomatics Department of the Housing Ministry. Former President Mohamed Nasheed launched a short story book he authored titled "Kuru Vaahaka - 80ge Fahukolhu" on September 27 and opened it for pre-orders.

Ocean Publishers announced that the book "Short Story - Late 80s" written by former President Mohamed Nasheed has been opened for pre-order at MVR 250, ahead of its official release in October 2026. Minister Heena Waleed signed an agreement with the Tianjin National Maritime Museum to hold an exhibition of the Maldives National Museum abroad for the first time, in early 2027 in China. With the assistance of the Asian Development Bank (ADB), the government has decided to establish three rehabilitation centers specifically for domestic violence victims in Hulhumale', R. Ungoofaaru, and Addu City. Reminding the public that walking on the Sinamale Bridge is strictly prohibited, the Maldives Police Service warned that action will be taken against those who breach the barricades and walk across. In addition to the arrival of Australian religious scholar Sheikh Naseem in the Maldives, efforts by the Islamic Ministry to provide support to non-governmental organizations have also been carried out. Authorities also expressed concern over instances where couples obtain divorce certificates yet continue to live together deceptively.

The 38th National Quran Recitation Competition has concluded, with Ismail Iz'aan Ibrahim in the Hafiz category, Aishath Zeek Riyaz in the non-memorization category, and Ayaan Ahmed Inan in the recitation by looking category winning first place overall. Speaking at the closing ceremony of this competition, Minister of Islamic Affairs Dr. Mohamed Shaheem Ali Saeed announced that the Imam and Khateeb of Masjid al-Haram, Sheikh Dr. Yasir Ad-Dawsari, is scheduled to make an official visit to the Maldives. Assistant Immigration Officer Aishath Mahidha, 26, who sustained serious injuries in a dangerous accident on Sosun Magu, passed away on 25 September 2026 while receiving treatment at ADK Hospital. Although police arrested 31-year-old Mehdi Hassan Imon of Bangladesh on suspicion of attempted self-harm after being rescued by the Coast Guard while perched on a pillar of the Sinamalé Bridge, the Criminal Court ordered his release considering his mental state. In a case involving the seizure of 3,345 grams of cannabis from two Indian passengers at Gan International Airport, the Maldivian man who went to collect the two individuals and the goods was taken into police custody. In D. Meedhoo, 40-year-old Abdulla Naseer was arrested for brewing alcohol at home, and the court remanded him for 10 days. Concern arose after the police headquarters advised that a complaint regarding the harassment and attack by a group on a RaajjeTV crew in D. Meedhoo should be lodged on official working days. Police are investigating a case in which a foreign woman was assaulted and robbed in R. Maduvvari. In the day's discussions, the importance of taking safety measures against ocean currents and attracting Maldivian youth to various employment sectors was highlighted.

Minister of Islamic Affairs Dr. Mohamed Shaheem Ali Saeed announced on 24 September 2026 that the Imam of Masjid al-Haram, Dr. Yasser Al-Dossary, is scheduled to make an official visit to the Maldives. MNDF Coastguard divers rescued a 31-year-old foreigner who jumped off the Sinamalé Bridge while he was clinging to a pillar. Minister of Construction Dr. Abdulla Muththalib stated that a technical inspection conducted following an incident where vessels collided with a bridge pillar confirmed that no damage was caused to the bridge's structure. Police have arrested a youth in connection with a dangerous accident on Sosun Magu in Malé. Due to increasing behavioral issues among minors, HA. Baarah Council has banned children under the age of 18 from being outside after 9:00 PM without a guardian. A court has sentenced a man to 15 years in prison after he was found guilty of sexually abusing a child. A person attempting to smuggle drugs into Fuvahmulah has been taken into police custody. A court has ordered a fine for an individual who obstructed duty and assaulted a police officer. The Police Service has achieved notable major successes in halting scam schemes that obtain money through fraud. Relevant authorities urge the public to be vigilant against a new scam operated by sending links under the guise of booking cancellations. Former Vice President Faisal Naseem's family has denied rumors spread about him on social media. HDC has decided to develop a bowling arena and a gaming arcade in Hulhumalé specifically for youth.

HDC has invited interested parties to submit expressions of interest for the development of a 10-lane bowling arena, a gaming arcade, and a multipurpose hall in the Ruggan'du 2 area of Hulhumalé Phase 1. Singapore has introduced a new regulation imposing a $500 fine for eating and drinking on buses in the country. The Manfaa Association has commenced the production of a video documentary series recognizing the services of Maldivian religious scholars. Ahmed Shakir (Kashimaa) shared valuable insights regarding positive social attributes and moral conduct. Various parties also commended businessman and political leader Ahmed Siyam Mohamed for his valuable contributions to the social sector. MNDF has now officially called off the search operation conducted to find Captain Mohamed Hamdhoon, Police Sergeant Ali Naafiu, and MNDF Staff Sergeant Ibrahim Ahmed, who went missing after the supply vessel "Friend 4" capsized in the Huvadhoo Sea.

On Tuesday, 22 September 2026, Mohamed Shaffan, 30, from Lilymage, R. Dhuvaafaru, who fell ill after jumping into the sea from a fishing boat in the waters of Shaviyani Atoll, was already deceased when brought to the Sh. Maroshi Health Centre. Following a video showing motorcycles towed for violations being thrown into the tow yard in Hulhumalé Phase 2 after legal procedures for disposal were completed, the police issued a statement clarifying the matter. Under the Ameenee Magu development project, MTCC has completed work on Segment 1 between Izzudheen Magu and the Dharumavantha Hospital park by laying two layers of asphalt. Minister of Islamic Affairs Dr. Mohamed Shaheem Ali Saeed has released sample designs for new official attire for imams and preachers, generated using AI and inspired by the minaret and coral stone carvings of the Malé Friday Mosque. Police have arrested individuals in a narcotics case and a child bullying case. Participants in the third batch of the National Service expressed their sentiments regarding the program. The GDh. Hoandeddhoo Council has instructed not to leave animals loose on the streets. Efforts were carried out to raise awareness about the importance of mutual respect in society. STELCO highlighted the benefits being received by citizens due to the expansion of its services. An initiative inspired by the school breakfast program implemented during President Solih's administration has been launched by Vijay.

A dangerous accident occurred on Sosun Magu in Malé today. In an operation conducted by the police, 3 people were arrested in a narcotics case in Dh. Kudahuvadhoo. On September 21, 2026, the owner of the boat that collided with a pillar of the Sinamalé Bridge gave the government a 48-hour ultimatum to clarify the location and condition of the boat. Alleging that confidential information regarding the case was sold to President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu for five million Rufiyaa, Aishath Eesha Ashraf's legal team has dismissed lawyer Mohamed Fareed. An agreement was signed today between the Islamic Ministry and the "Khidhumaiy" NGO to build a mosque comprising an Islamic library and Quran classes in Hulhumalé Phase 2 in memory of the late Sheikh Ibrahim Fareed Ahmed. To encourage population growth, the Thinadhoo City Council has introduced a one-time financial allowance between MVR 1,500 and MVR 2,000 for newborn children and published the regulation. The graduation ceremony for the third batch of Maldivian National Service students was also held today. Practical activities to complete the development of the outer ring road by closing the West Park area of Malé proceeded today. Additionally, relevant authorities also spoke today about the important role played by women in law enforcement agencies.

On 20 September 2026, following strong public criticism over a sponsored article published regarding former Vice President Ahmed Adeeb, Forbes Georgia removed the article and began reviewing the matter in accordance with their editorial guidelines. The 20-year-old youth who lost control of his motorcycle and fell into the sea during a racing competition held in L. Gan, sustaining serious injuries, was brought to Male' for further treatment and placed on a ventilator in the IGMH ICU. Under the Ameenee Magu development project carried out by MTCC, asphalt laying work has commenced on the first 270-meter segment from Izzuddeen Magu to the park near Dharumavantha Hospital. Many people are expressing grief over the passing of Maldivian religious scholar Dr. Mohamed Ali. The Commissioner of Police met with the family of Shaheed Corporal Adam Haleem and inquired about their well-being. Details of an important historical document concerning King Hassan IX and Chagos have been revealed. A dangerous accident occurred on Sosun Magu in Male', injuring people. Police exposed an issue where a woman attempting to secretly leave the Maldives staged her own kidnapping. Authorities have begun investigating an issue where sewage leaked onto the street due to a problem with the sewerage system at Iskandhar School. Public concerns have surfaced over the revocation of a plot registry by the AA. Thoddoo Council.

Six Bangladeshi nationals were arrested at Velana International Airport attempting to smuggle out of the country foreign currency worth more than 3.86 million Maldivian Rufiyaa hidden inside "Ye-Ye" cereal packets on a Maldivian flight bound for Dhaka. Additionally, a 38-year-old Egyptian man, Peter Saman Marzouk Saman, was taken into police custody and detained at the same airport after joking that there was a bomb in his aunt's bag during security screening. Furthermore, in a 10-hour special joint operation conducted on September 19, 2026, in AA. Thoddoo by Immigration, Police, and the Homeland Security Ministry to identify undocumented expatriates, 507 foreigners were screened and 107 undocumented foreigners were taken into Immigration custody. Meanwhile, relevant authorities also disclosed important information regarding the land reclamation project in K. Thulusdhoo.

Today's Friday sermon advised being honest in financial transactions and avoiding unnecessary debts and usury (riba), while condemning the attacks carried out by the Houthis in violation of the sanctity of Mecca and Medina. A 50-year-old Maldivian man, who fell headfirst and became trapped among tetrapod rocks while fishing in the Usfasgandu area, was rescued by the MNDF by moving the heavy rocks and taken to IGMH. The court has remanded a 36-year-old man and a 25-year-old woman in custody for five days following their arrest under a court warrant over an indecent act committed on the balcony of an apartment in Hiyaa Tower 12, Hulhumalé Phase 2. Faseeh has called for submitting a resignation letter even if one merely contemplates committing an offense while in uniform. It has been revealed that the registration of the Thoddoo family stranded in India has been cancelled. Concerns have been noted regarding a potential shortage of imams across various islands in the Maldives in the future. Public complaints have increased due to delays in the Ameenee Magu development work. A special weekend program conducted with Dr. Jameel was also notable.

Minister of Homeland Security and Technology Ali Ihusaan has given assurance that there will be no food shortages in the Maldives. As Women's Day was celebrated in the police service, it was revealed that the number of women working in the Maldives Police Service has risen to over 1,300, with women now accounting for more than 20 percent of the entire institution. Eldar Khafizov, a 55-year-old tourist from Kazakhstan who went on a deep dive near Fuvahmulah, was already deceased by the time he was taken to Fuvahmulah Hospital after his condition deteriorated. In addition, the R. Maakurathu Council organized a special trip to an uninhabited island with the island's residents to collect palm fronds.

NSPA, in collaboration with councils, has begun efforts to recover more than 10 million Rufiyaa mistakenly deposited into the accounts of over 700 deceased individuals. An elderly father who was neglected and left stranded alone on the street has been taken into state care. Former teacher Mohamed Afeef, who suffered serious brain injuries in an accident in Hulhumalé Phase 2, passed away on the night of September 15 while undergoing treatment on life support at Tree Top Hospital. To reduce accidents and raise awareness, Hulhumalé Traffic Police conducted a silent drill holding signboards near the cemetery. Over 52,000 people have registered with the Malé Taxi Line so far. Due to a technical issue with a Maldivian Airbus aircraft scheduled to fly from Cochin, India to Malé, passengers were forced to wait inside the aircraft for five hours. Muslima Adam of dusitD2 Feydhoo Maldives won the titles of Best Chef and Best Maldivian Chef at the FHAM 2026 Global Culinary Challenge, securing three gold medals and one silver medal.

An elderly man living alone in distress in G.Dh. Faresmaathodaa has been taken under the care of the Ministry of Social and Family Development with the assistance of the council and police. Ghufran Khalid, 26, from L. Kalaidhoo, who fled after crashing into a car parked on Berebedhimaa Hingun in Hulhumale' Phase 2, was arrested with drugs and alcohol and remanded in custody for 10 days. The regulations have been amended so that foreigners cannot convert to a work visa from within the country after entering on a business visa or special visa, and those coming to work must obtain a work permit entry pass prior to arrival. Additionally, applications have been opened publicly for employment opportunities in the Maldives Police Service. The police are also searching for a woman for an investigation in connection with a drug case. One hundred forty participants have been selected for the final round of the 36th National Quran Competition.

Three people were injured in a dangerous accident on the Sinamalé Bridge when a speeding motorcycle lost control and collided with another motorcycle and a car, with one Maldivian man who sustained serious injuries undergoing surgery at Hulhumalé Hospital. Police and relevant authorities have launched an investigation into a case where a child was bullied and assaulted on an island in the Upper North Police Region, and the police have urged the public not to circulate the video. More than 300 young khateebs participated in the National Young Khateebs' Symposium held at the Islamic Centre to commemorate the 900th anniversary of the Maldives embracing Islam. The Minister of Islamic Affairs, Dr. Mohamed Shaheem Ali Saeed, has opened the opportunity to design a special national attire incorporating Maldivian culture and historical elements for imams and khateebs who conduct Friday and Eid prayers. In addition, an incident occurred on 14 September 2026 where a person was injured after falling from an antenna tower. Assistance was provided in an incident where a boat ran aground on the reef of R. Ungoofaaru. Police are also investigating a case where a TV was stolen from the STELCO bus stop and a theft that occurred in G. Tharijehigé. A court has imposed a small fine on a group of people who struck a person's head with a stone. While opportunities have been opened to apply for police jobs, ticket bookings have also begun for Kaalaavannage held in aid of the Fiyavathi charity. Practical work has also commenced on a one-year project targeted at inhabited islands.

To commemorate the 900th anniversary of the Maldives embracing Islam, President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu laid the foundation stone for 'Jaami'ul Sultan Mohamed bin Abdulla' in Hulhumalé Phase 2, which will be the largest mosque with a capacity of 10,000 people, built with aid from Saudi Arabia's Al Rajhi company. Initiated by the Ministry of Islamic Affairs, the National Symposium for Young Khateebs was held, highlighting the importance of increasing the number of Hafizs and maintaining mosques in the Maldives. Ahmed Manik (Jaadhoo Ahmed Manik), who served the state for more than 46 years and received the National Service Award, passed away at the age of 88. Haa Alifu Dhidhdhoo Council has urged that children should not be outside unaccompanied by a guardian after 9:00 PM. Activities marking Global Housekeeping Week were carried out in Alifu Dhaalu Omadhoo. Various parties have spoken out emphasizing empowering youth to take initiative and move forward for community development.

To commemorate the 900th anniversary of the Maldives embracing Islam and National Heritage Day, President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu attended a ceremony held on the night of 12 September 2026 at Hulhumalé Central Park, where the logo and slogan for a year-long special program were unveiled, and the establishment of 'Maldives Awqaf Investments Limited' was announced. Furthermore, an agreement was signed on 12 September 2026 with Saudi Arabia's Al Rajhi Company to construct the Sultan Muhammad Ibn Abdullah Grand Mosque and Islamic Civilization Centre in Hulhumalé. Additionally, at the newly introduced Engineers Award 2026, Dr. Furqan Ibrahim was named Engineer of the Year, while Lifetime Achievement Awards were conferred upon Abdul Shakoor Solih, and in memory of the late Ahmed Mahureen and the late Mohamed Rasheed. Meanwhile, the HA. Dhidhdhoo Council has urged that children should not be outdoors without a guardian after 9:00 pm.

Two oil tankers under Customs custody collided with a pillar of the Sinamalé Bridge, and several individuals were injured and began receiving treatment at the hospital following dangerous accidents that occurred on the highway. On September 11, 2026, the Criminal Court sentenced Ahmed Muaviyath and Mohamed Azeem Ibrahim to prison over the theft of a motorcycle from the parking zone of Velana International Airport. Naushad Moosa, 32, who repeatedly damaged mosques in the Malé area, was rearrested and remanded in custody for 15 days. The court has sentenced a homeowner in a narcotics case. Today's Friday sermon shed light on Islamic Sharia and the 900th anniversary of the Maldives embracing Islam. Jamiyyath Salaf has denied claims alleging that Kudagiri was closed by cancelling public bookings to hold its second Da'wah Council. The government has launched a project to construct 6,363 new housing units across 36 inhabited islands of the Maldives. HDC has decided to expedite water, sewerage, and road construction works in Hulhumalé Phase 3 to provide land recipients the opportunity to build homes.

Police have launched an investigation into a dangerous accident involving two motorcycles near Vinares 5 on Hithigas Magu in Hulhumalé Phase 2, which left four people injured. Minister Mohamed Saeed has urged people to make cycling a habit in order to maintain good health. For the first time in the Maldives, the female tour guide license was officially presented to S. Feydhoo's Aishath Sheena by Minister of Tourism Mohamed Ameen. To increase religious awareness, informational materials regarding the three categories of Tawhid were released to the public. During the month of September, the 38th National Quran Recitation Competition is scheduled to commence officially and proceed. The government has planned numerous activities to commemorate the 900th anniversary of the Maldives' embrace of Islam on September 13.

On 9 September 2026, Minister of Economic Development, Transport and Trade Mohamed Saeed announced that approximately MVR 220 million received from vehicle registrations and annual fees in the Greater Male' area would be spent on traffic solutions, with plans to introduce parking zones under a "touch and go" system on Boduthakurufaanu Magu and complete modern parking buildings by 2027. The F. Bilehddhoo Council decided to charge a fee of MVR 5,000 from people who relinquish their residency of the island, and to grant a financial allowance of MVR 2,500 to every newly registered resident. President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu announced that the Cabinet had decided to execute a national project named "Ihuthiraam" to revive the culture of mutual respect in the community. According to statistics released by the National Social Protection Agency (NSPA) on 9 September 2026, following the increase of the allowance to MVR 3,000 per child, MVR 17,469,000 was disbursed to 3,357 single parents taking care of 5,206 children. In a recent operation conducted by Maldives Immigration targeting spas and salons in Hulhumalé, 7 undocumented foreigners were arrested. Maldivian media also reported the tragic news of 16-year-old Hafiz Mohamed Ismail Aalam, who passed away in Birmingham, UK, after being hit by a car while riding his bicycle home after Fajr prayers. In addition, news emerged concerning efforts to boost the water capacity of Hulhumalé and the historical importance of the Addu Link Road.

On 8 September 2026, the foundation stone was laid for the largest mosque with a capacity of 10,000 people, the Sultan Mohamed Bin Abdulla Grand Mosque, in the area connecting Hulhumalé Phase 2 and Phase 3. It was announced on this day that the number of Hafizs who have memorized the Quran in the Maldives has reached 322. Over 75 percent of the work on the bridge connecting Malé and Villingili has been completed, with the final segments joined and preparations underway for the asphalt-laying phase. MTCC is carrying out asphalt-laying work in damaged areas of Ameenee Magu in Malé. In the case of the speeding Porsche car accident near the Vinares flats in Hulhumalé Phase Two, it was revealed that the driver Ibrahim Ikram and two other individuals were arrested and the case is progressing. "Camp Fanvaru", conducted with 341 participants of the third batch of the Maldives National Service, was successfully concluded. Work on the Dharavandhoo harbour development project was also progressing rapidly on this day. In addition, information was shared regarding the Housing Equity Loan dedicated to housing and the housing units in Gan. A court also sentenced an individual convicted of a drug case to prison. A special campaign to increase religious and moral awareness was also launched on this day.

To ensure the safety of the high-rise towers in Hulhumalé, HDC has opened the opportunity to raise balcony railings and install window grills until September 30, with more than 500 applications received so far. In connection with the 900th anniversary of the Maldives' conversion to Islam, the foundation stone has been laid in Hulhumalé for the Sultan Mohamed Ibn Abdulla Grand Mosque—the largest mosque to be built in the Maldives—and a project has been launched to install religious advice and dhikr boards in all inhabited islands. In addition, following an incident where a cat was abused near the Vinares towers in Hulhumalé Phase 2, a gathering was held near Vinares 6 calling for an end to animal cruelty and for a sustainable solution to the stray cat issue.

Looking at today's social news: under proposed amendments to the Land Transport Act, traffic police are to be granted the power to confiscate and revoke licenses if unpaid traffic fines and fees reach or exceed MVR 5,000. Following an incident that occurred when a STELCO employee was called live on Raajje TV's "Fashairu" program, the Maldives Media and Broadcasting Commission instructed on September 6, 2026, that notice and consent must be obtained when making phone calls during live broadcasts. Protesting the unresolved issue of noise keeping him awake due to scrap metal dumping in his residential neighborhood, film star Ali Seezan went to the Malé City Council with a towel, brush, and shower gel and slept on a sofa there. Serious accidents resulting in injuries were reported in Hulhumalé. Preparations have begun at the national level to mark the 900th anniversary of the Maldives embracing Islam. HDC conducted a public consultation process to establish two locations in Hulhumalé. Relevant authorities disclosed that row house projects across various islands of the Maldives are progressing swiftly. Fuvahmulah City has been nominated for the evaluation stage of the "Chaalu Dhivehi Raajje Awards".

Police have stated that 25-year-old Mariyam Maee Jameel from L. Mundoo, who was reported missing, presented herself to the Henveiru Police Station on Saturday, September 5, 2026. A dangerous fire incident occurred at a house inhabited by expatriates in Sh. Foakaidhoo, causing significant damages. Under the Land Transport Act, the government has decided to cancel the registration of vehicles that have reached 20 years from their manufacture date, and has published the compensation policy for the disposal of vehicles after a three-year grace period. The book fair organized by the Maldives National University (MNU) is receiving tremendous public support. It has been revealed that Eema, who represented the Maldives in the Miss World pageant, has withdrawn from the competition.

On Friday, September 4, 2026, as community attention was focused on various issues, along with efforts to raise awareness on child protection and against abuse, a case of abuse against a 13-year-old child surfaced. The High Court upheld the Employment Tribunal's order requiring Villa Air to pay compensation amounting to 6 months' salary at the rate of 10,200 Rufiyaa per month to a ground operations assistant dismissed over sexual harassment allegations. The Civil Court ordered former MDP President Dr. Ibrahim Didi in absentia to settle and clear an outstanding roaming service bill of 18,199 Rufiyaa owed to Dhiraagu before 2:00 PM on September 16, 2026. HDC announced a CSR program to provide assistance in repairing and reinforcing balcony railings and windows of social housing flats in Hulhumale', opening the opportunity to submit applications until September 30. Furthermore, important social events were also marked on that day, including an accident near the Male' swimming track, a Family Night event organized by the police, as well as the commemoration of the National Day of Maldives Embracing Islam and historic memories of President Mohamed Amin Didi.

Looking at the important social news of 3 September 2026, the Police Anti-Scam Centre has revealed that over 1.96 million Rufiyaa was lost across 184 scam cases reported last August, with 1.12 million Rufiyaa successfully recovered. President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu conveyed condolences following the passing of M. Echo Abdulla Shareef, who served the state for more than 41 years and the President's Office for over 34 years. Abdulla Shareef's funeral prayer was held at the Aa Sahara Mosque after the Fajr prayer on 3 September. Several suspects have been taken into police custody regarding various cases of drugs, theft, and sexual abuse. In addition, the President gave assurance that the government will address public grievances related to housing. While the police are taking special measures to ensure road safety and reduce accidents, various activities were carried out to mark Police Service Day. As preparations are underway to celebrate the 900th anniversary of the Maldives embracing Islam, the 'Future Foundations' program has been launched to empower youth. Important developments were also highlighted on this day regarding efforts being made by local councils and HDC to expand services provided to the public.

Prosecutor General Abbas Shareef has announced that criminal charges will be filed against individuals who rent or allow others to use their personal bank accounts and cards. Following an increase in incidents of children falling from high-rise towers and dying, the Malé City Council instructed HDC on September 2, 2026, to install safety grills and railings on windows and balconies of flats in Hulhumalé. Following the death on September 1 of 9-year-old Zeeva Sinan Ahmed, who was injured in a dangerous accident near the Vinares towers in Hulhumalé Phase 2, police have investigated allegations that a second car ran over her and have towed the vehicles involved. Additionally, the police have taken actions regarding this accident, including suspending the licenses of three drivers involved and fining an individual who drove a parked vehicle while their license was already suspended.

Zeeva Sinan Ahmed, aged 9, who sustained serious injuries in a dangerous accident near Vinares Tower 7 in Hulhumalé Phase 2, passed away today. In addition, a 17-year-old girl was injured in an accident involving two motorcycles near Villa College. To ensure road safety, the President today ratified amendments to the Land Transport Act, which include a demerit point deduction system, the towing of vehicles with fines exceeding 5,000 Rufiyaa, and a fine of 100 Rufiyaa for those violating road crossing regulations. A two-year-old girl died today after falling from an upper floor of the STELCO tower in Hulhumalé Phase 2. A 27-year-old Bangladeshi man was found dead in the industrial area of GDh. Thinadhoo. The Ministry of Housing revealed today that practical work on constructing 4,000 housing units in Gulhifalhu with the assistance of India's EXIM Bank is scheduled to begin this year and is targeted for completion by August 2028. The national airline, Maldivian, announced today its decision to increase the frequency of flights to Trivandrum and Cochin in India. National Grandparents Day was also celebrated in the Maldives today.

In the K-Park fraud case, Hassan Mamdooh was sentenced to 397 years in prison, while Jaishan Saeed received 159 years. Separately, the High Court ordered a retrial for two suspects in the Yameen Rasheed murder case. President Muizzu sent condolences following the death of renowned director Abdul Fathah. New Year celebrations have commenced at Central Park featuring drone and pyro shows. Additionally, several Male' roads were converted to one-way streets, a cultural festival was launched, and significant judicial decisions were finalized today.

The government today announced the application date for Male' area housing and land schemes. Preparations for New Year’s Eve celebrations and fireworks in Hulhumale' are complete, and changes to Hulhumale' traffic flow have taken effect today. Additionally, projects to develop cinema complexes and youth centers across various cities were announced. While visa applications for foreign Hafizes are open, news reports indicate that the specific arrival date for Bollywood star Katrina Kaif remains unconfirmed.

As 2024 concludes, the government has announced new regulations for Malé land and flat allocation, with applications for new housing projects opening on January 15. In the social sector, over 100 state-ward children have been reunited with families. Recent highlights include the film "Kamanaa" winning three international awards and the 63rd anniversary of Voice of Maldives. Additionally, authorities disclosed the number of new taxi service applicants and details for upcoming New Year celebrations.

Key events in the Maldives on December 28, 2025: * **Legal & Crime:** Hassan Mamdooh was convicted on 94 charges. Authorities investigated a break-in at the Maldivian office in Hoarafushi, arrested suspects for assaulting a man thrown overboard, and intercepted drugs smuggled in chocolate syrup bottles. * **Housing & Development:** Distribution of keys for the "Gedhoruveriya" flats commenced, and several new development projects were announced. * **Social & Cyber Security:** The Cyber Crime Center assisted over 1,000 individuals this year. Investigations into child abuse cases are ongoing, and a TikTok competition was launched for the local council elections. * **Policy:** Changes were introduced to the subsidy regulations for single parents.

Key news highlights today include Hassan Mamdooh facing 94 charges in the K-Park fraud case and rape suspect Izam Zahir surrendering to police after a year in hiding. Other major stories include a drug bust involving 32 million Rufiyaa, the government reversing a decision to increase single-parent allowances within 24 hours, and a report projecting the Maldives' population to be elderly by 2052. Additionally, former Judge Najeeb was convicted of misuse of official influence, plans were announced for four new mosques in Hulhumale, an investigation began into an infant's death at a resort, and police conducted operations against illegal expatriate businesses.

Key events today include the observance of National Unity Day 2025, Customs seizing MVR 30 million worth of drugs, and the arrest of K-Park director Manday. Additional highlights include increasing the single parent allowance to MVR 12,000, the opening of new mosques, and concerns regarding the rising expatriate population. Furthermore, Umrah pilgrims have begun departing for the school holidays, while police have launched special safety operations for the New Year.

The government today increased the allowance for single parents to MVR 15,000, while residents of Meedhoo visited Tulhadhoo to mark National Unity Day. Additionally, a lawsuit was filed to recover an iPhone gifted as a marriage proposal, over 7,700 Maldivians departed for Umrah during the holidays, and the National Library received a significant book donation.