A terror suspect, arrested allegedly for plotting to blow up a school laboratory in the Maldives, on Friday alleged custodial torture by law enforcement officers, reported Sun news. Acting on the allegations, the Human Rights Commission of Maldives (HRCM) initiated a probe in the matter. 

Ahsan Mohmmad, 32, was among eight suspects arrested last year for what the Maldivian authorities alleged a terror plot. Police also claimed to have recovered documents, indicating their association with a terrorist entity. 

On Friday, a team of the human rights commission was sent to the facility where the suspect was kept detained. Media reports said the commission confirmed receiving the complaint regarding excessive use of force. 

“This case will be investigated by HRCM under the Anti-Torture Act,” the HRCM was quoted as saying by Sun. The family of the detainee has been informed that the case is under investigation by the commission, they added. 

While police clarified that the suspect, on multiple occasions, resisted following protocols and showed aggressive behavior while in custody. Officers had to spray pepper spray. 

However, some actions by police officers are under the lens of the Police Professional Standards Command and Use of Force Review Committee for compliance with laws and regulations.