Human Rights Commission of the Maldives (HRCM) has said that it is investigating Zaidhul Ameen’s claims that he is, under police custody, being coerced into making statements against former President Maumoon Abdul Gayoom.

His family had, on February 23, filed a case at HRCM, asking for his protection, adding that he is being used “as a political weapon.” Before the case was filed at HRCM, Ameen had made strong accusations against Assistant Commissioner of Police, Abdulla Nawaz, calling to exclude him from questioning.

Former President, and leader of the divided ruling Progressive Party of Maldives (PPM) had also called for an investigation into the claims made by the Male’ City council member.

Ameen was arrested on January 13, on allegations of blackmail.

In the case filed at HRCM, Ameen’s family highlighted that he is yet to be informed of whom he had blackmailed, despite police attempting to take a statement from him.

His family emphasized that Ameen denies the allegations against him.

An official from HRCM said that its deputy leader will give out the necessary information on ongoing cases to the media, adding that he is unable to divulge any more information as it is an ongoing investigation.

The official also said that its leader had asked them to inform the media that it is also investigating the allegations made by jailed lawmaker Ahmed Mahloof, regarding prison regulations.

In a statement released on February 11, Mahloof had emphasized the importance of transparent government policies and prison regulation to thwart crime and reform offenders.

Noting that “imprisonment is punishment is enough,” Mahloof said that “there is no reason that inmates should be subject to mental and physical abuse.”