Former Deputy Minister arrested over incitement of arson against State buildings

Former Deputy Transport Minister Hassan Zihan has been arrested over social media posts allegedly encouraging arson attacks against the Supreme Court, the President’s Office and the People’s Majlis.

The Maldives Police Service confirmed the arrest following posts published on his Facebook account.

Zihan, who also previously served as a First Lieutenant and naval architect in the Maldives National Defence Force, allegedly questioned why the three buildings could not be set on fire.

Another remark reportedly described setting fire to the buildings housing the three branches of the state as “fun.”

The posts prompted allegations that he was encouraging violence against state institutions.

Under the Prevention of Terrorism Act, "inciting an act of terrorism" is defined as a criminal offense, whether the encouragement is provided directly or indirectly.

Such incitement is determined to have occurred if a person's words or statements are perceived by the public, or a section thereof, as encouragement to commit, plan, or facilitate an act of terrorism.

Furthermore, in determining whether a statement constitutes incitement to terrorism, the court must consider the content of the speech, the context and circumstances in which it was delivered, and the medium of communication utilized.