Unlicensed driver in accident that claimed life of a minor granted conditional release

The youth who drove the motorcycle involved in a fatal accident that resulted in the death of a 16-year-old has been granted conditional release from custody.

The accident took place at approximately 1:30am early Wednesday morning near the traffic lights on Boduthakurufaanu Magu when the motorbike, which was being driven at high speed, lost control and veered onto the pavement.

The motorcycle was driven by a 19-year-old Maldivian man, with the 16-year-old boy as the pillion. Both of them were immediately rushed to the hospital for medical attention; however, the 16-year-old succumbed to his injuries shortly afterwards.

The 19-year-old from R. Inguraidhoo was subsequently arrested as he did not possess a valid license to drive a vehicle of that category.

Criminal Court records show that the court granted conditional release to the youth upon presentation before the court for a remand hearing on Thursday.

At the remand hearing, the youth maintained that the crash was unintentional and requested to be released from custody, even under strict conditions.

The Police said they had no objections to the request if the youth cooperated with the investigation.

While the judge granted conditional release, it was stressed that the Police will have the discretion to detain him again if breached any of the conditions.

However, the records did not disclose the conditions imposed.

Speeding continues to be one of the leading causes of accidents in the Maldives, many of which have resulted in fatalities, particularly among young people.