Mayor of GDh. Thinadhoo Saud Ali has been taken to the police over allegations of fraud in reporting the island's population so that the island's status could be changed to a city.

Saud claims that he was summoned to police as Thinadhoo is preparing to mark 60 years since it was populated.

Thinadhoo was given city status by former President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih's government during the 2023 Presidential Election campaign.

At the time, statistics showed that Thinadhoo had a population of 8,000, with around 5,000 living on the island itself.

According to the law, city status can only be granted if the population reaches 10,000.

After Thinadhoo was given city status, former President Solih said at the time the decision was made and resolution signed due to requirements being met as per the Decentralization Act.

Some members of the public filed a case previously at both the police and the Anti-Corruption Commission (ACC) regarding Thinadhoo's population where allegations of fraud were alleged. A team from the ACC searched Thinadhoo City Council's office last year and took some documents with them.

Saud alleges he was taken to the police long after the case had been filed and during preparations in celebrating 60 years of people having settled in Thinadhoo.

"Even though there may be many political obstacles, 22nd August will be celebrated. Activities will be held for three days from August 20th," said Saud.

Saud has also previously been suspended for three months following an inquiry into Thinadhoo Council after complaints were filed at the Local Government Authority (LGA).