The Maldives Police Service has apprehended three individuals in connection with separate thefts targeting state utility companies, the State Electric Company (STELCO) and the Male’ Water and Sewerage Company (MWSC).

According to remand orders issued by the Criminal Court, two suspects were arrested for breaking into a STELCO substation. The individuals have been identified as Ahmed Nizar, 37, of Ashrafmanzil, S. Hithadhoo, and Ahmed Rasheed, 37, of Kotharivilla, HA. Thakandhoo. Both men face charges of unauthorized entry, property damage, and theft.

The court noted that both Nizar and Rasheed admitted to entering the substation. Following their initial hearing, the Criminal Court ordered them to be remanded in custody for a period of 15 days as the investigation continues.

In a separate incident, 29-year-old Abdulla Jinah of G. Parkerhouse, K. Male’, was arrested for allegedly stealing from an MWSC garage. The Criminal Court has similarly ordered Jinah to be held in remand for 15 days while authorities conclude their inquiry into the matter.