A case has been filed in the High Court challenging the detention of two taxi drivers arrested during a protest in Hulhumalé. The protest occurred on Wednesday evening, with taxi drivers blocking a road to oppose the government’s newly launched taxi line system.

The three arrested individuals were identified as Mohammad Shamin (39), Ahmed Shabeen (33), and Nu'uman Ahmed (36). While Nu'uman was granted conditional bail, Shamin and Shabeen were remanded to police custody for five days.

Lawyer Aik Ahmed Eesa, representing Shamin and Shabeen, stated in a press conference that the police had initially sought a 15-day detention, but the court reduced it to five days. Aik argued that the police lacked sufficient evidence and have already towed vehicles they deemed an inconvenience to the public. He confirmed that an appeal has been filed in the High Court and aims to secure the release of the detained drivers before the five-day period ends.

Additionally, Aik mentioned plans to approach the Civil Court to seek compensation for the towing of the taxis.

A taxi driver at the press conference claimed that the road was blocked unintentionally. He stated that police stopped taxis attempting to cross the Sinamalé Bridge, leading to vehicles being stranded while trying to access the other side. He also accused the police of attempting to disrupt the protest.

On the night of the protest, 22 vehicles were towed, and three drivers were arrested. The protest was in opposition to the government’s implementation of a taxi line system, which has faced criticism from local drivers.