The Heritage Ministry stated today that it is investigating a case where the historical building, Usgekolhu, located in Sultan Park, was damaged by drawing graffiti on it.

The ministry stated it has come to their attention that some individuals have attempted to damage the place by drawing graffiti on the walls of Usgekolhu, which is the only remaining part of the grand royal palace of the Maldives.

Therefore, it said that work is ongoing in collaboration with the police to investigate how the incident took place and to find the responsible parties.

The ministry stated that after investigating the necessary matters, action will be taken against the responsible parties in accordance with the Cultural Heritage Act.

While some individuals damaged the location, it is a place that is kept locked. Furthermore, the interior of Sultan Park is also equipped with installed cameras.

While this government has decided to develop an interactive museum at Usgekolhu, the former minister Adam Naseer had stated that this change is a transformation that President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu wishes to bring to the place.

However, the Heritage Ministry said today that although Male' City Council was requested to transfer the keys and the maintenance of Usgekolhu under the ministry in connection with that project, the place has not been handed over to the ministry.

Therefore, the Heritage Ministry said that it has commenced the necessary work to transfer the protection and maintenance of Usgekolhu under the ministry within the laws and regulations.

The ministry stated that the building is a place built to a high standard that very well demonstrates the architectural design of that era, and that due to such damages, the cultural value of the place is affected, and it is possible for the place to sustain irreversible damages.

Usgekolhu was built in the year 1903 by Al-Sultan Mohamed Imaduddin VI, who ruled the Maldives, for his spouse whom he married from Egypt. However, that reign came to an end not long after. Later, the residence was used for various purposes of the kings. Most recently, the National Museum was also run at the premises.

The location, which is more than a hundred years old, is the only structure currently visible among the buildings of the old grand palace.