Paint poured over man accused of theft in Maafushi

A video circulating on social media shows a man accused of theft being publicly humiliated by having paint poured over him in Kaafu atoll Maafushi.

A member of the Maafushi Island Council speaking with Mihaaru News said that the incident occurred after the man was allegedly caught stealing from a shop on the island.

He has since been taken into police custody, he said.

The video shows the man being escorted outside where he is forced to pour paint over himself, covering his head, face, and entire body.

In later footage, he is seen sitting on the beach, attempting to wash the paint off, while others involved in the incident remain nearby. Police arrive and take him away in a vehicle.

The videos have sparked widespread criticism, with many condemning the act as inhumane and degrading. People argue that regardless of the crime, such treatment is unacceptable and that there are laws in place to deal with criminals.