A Halloween party was held at Kaani Palm Beach in Maafushi on 31 October, according to announcements made by Kaani Hotels and Tours.
The company had publicised the event on 24 October. Local reports indicate that the island council was not informed in advance and has stated that it was unaware the party would take place.
Halloween celebrations involving costumes and parties associated with non-Islamic traditions are generally not permitted in the Maldives outside certain resort contexts. Authorities have previously taken action against similar events on local islands.
No official statement from the Ministry of Tourism or police regarding the Maafushi event has been widely reported. The council’s position is that it learned of the gathering only after it had occurred.
Maafushi is a popular local island for tourism development and has seen increasing numbers of guest houses and hotels in recent years.
