One released in Cafe' De' Male' vandalism case due to lack of evidence

An individual arrested for vandalism and destroying property at Cafe' de Male' has been released due to lack of evidence.

A group of assailants had entered the cafe' in capital Male' City, concealing their identities through wearing helmets, and carrying dangerous weapons. They had damaged the structure and property in the cafe'.

The suspect arrested in the case is a 21 year old Maldivian man. He was accused of planning and executing the attack.

Although Police appealed for the man to be placed in remand in custody, Criminal Court granted him a conditional release.

The court order states that Police statements indicate he was not actively involved in the attack, and added that although Police accuse him of planning the attack, there is no evidence to support this.

Police said that in the attack, the cash counter at the cafe', and a glass display case were shattered beyond use, alleging that this was a premeditated attack.

Police also said that the attack had been carried out through contention between two gangs operating in the capital. Two individuals were actively involved in the attack, and Police say that an additional person had visited the premises earlier and taken video footage to assist in the attack.