Maldives Police Service (MPS) has launched a manhunt for two suspects in the brutal murder of Mohamed Anas.

The police are searching for Mohamed Saaz and Afrah Abdulrazzaq, both 21, "in regards to an ongoing investigation into the fatal stabbing of a youth, at Litus Service Center on July 31".

According to its website, the police had initially announced the manhunt for the two on September 13. However, police had not revealed details on why they were being sought, only stating that they were wanted "in regards to ongoing investigations".

Police have asked anyone "who might be able to assist with information that could lead the arrest of the suspects" is requested to contact the Police at the hotline 3322111 or its Serious and Organized Crime Department from 9911099.

Police had previously revealed that 12 suspects had been taken into custody over Anas' murder, including those that were actively involved in his murder., including two on August 18 and one earlier this month. Some of those arrested have since been released.

25-year-old Anas, native to Meedhoo island of Raa atoll, was stabbed to death by a group of masked assailants on the 31st of July. Anas who worked on a speedboat was killed not too long after he arrived in Malé that night.

CCTV footage from Litus Service Center, where the attack took place, show the attackers pursuing him before stabbing him to death.