The Maldives Police Service has confirmed that protection was provided to Kulhudhuffushi City Mayor Mohamed Athif after he was surrounded and chased by a group of protesters during the early hours of Wednesday.

According to police, the incident took place in Kulhudhuffushi, where tensions escalated following allegations made against the mayor. Protesters accused Athif of driving around the city with an 18-year-old girl. Among those present was the girl’s brother, who alleged that the mayor had misled her.

Videos circulating on social media show the mayor attempting to evade the group, with protesters following him on motorbikes as he drove through the city.

Police said officers intervened and escorted the mayor to Kulhudhuffushi Police Station to ensure his safety amid the escalating situation.

In a message to media, police confirmed that the case is under investigation. No further details have been disclosed regarding any formal complaints or charges at this stage.

The incident has drawn widespread attention online, with videos of the confrontation being widely shared across social media platforms.