A 32-year-old man, Ahmed Athuhar, who was arrested for holding a woman hostage at knifepoint in Malé, has been remanded in custody pending the conclusion of his trial.

The arrest followed a tense rescue operation on Thursday night, during which police officers subdued Athuhar by striking him on the head with a baton to free the victim, who had a knife held against her throat.

A police spokesperson confirmed that Athuhar’s remand hearing took place in his absence at the Criminal Court on Saturday, where the court ordered him to remain in jail until the trial's outcome.

Athuhar sustained injuries during the rescue and was initially treated at ADK Hospital before being transferred to IGMH after exhibiting signs of a possible concussion, including vomiting.

Medical tests, including a CT scan, returned normal results, and further evaluations by a psychiatrist and neurologist revealed no additional issues.

Athuhar was discharged from IGMH on Saturday morning and subsequently returned to police custody.

According to sources, the incident occurred following a heated argument between Athuhar and the victim, who had been living together in a rented apartment.

The dispute reportedly escalated when Athuhar failed to contribute to rent and other expenses.

The young woman, who sustained injuries during the ordeal, was treated at IGMH and discharged the same night.

Athuhar has a prior police record and was previously serving a sentence before being released under a presidential pardon.