The Criminal Court has remanded Kendhoo MP Mauroof Zakir for five days following his arrest during the fishermen’s protest. It is not clear why the court ordered the remand. Police have also not explained the basis for holding the MP.
Mauroof was arrested on Thursday after police boarded several vessels taking part in the protest. The operation led to the arrest of four foreigners, the seizure of three vessels and the detention of fishermen from two boats. Before his arrest, Mauroof told the media that officers boarded the vessels without presenting a court order.
The protest was organised by the Bodu Kanneli Masveringe Union (BKMU) and began on Wednesday morning. Forty-nine vessels from different parts of the country took part. Fishermen demanded that the government begin buying fish, raise the fish-buying price, and ensure access to fuel and ice at base rates.
The MDP parliamentary group has filed a complaint with the Inter-Parliamentary Union (IPU), saying the arrest breached parliamentary protections and fundamental rights. The case has been referred to the IPU Committee on the Human Rights of Parliamentarians. The group also raised the matter with the Commonwealth Parliamentary Association, requesting an investigation under rules designed to prevent political pressure on MPs.
The MDP described the arrest as illegal and called for the release of anyone whose rights were violated.
Police have not issued any updates on the case.