MALÉ, Maldives, Jan 31, 2024 (BSS/AFP) - The top criminal prosecutor in the

Maldives was assaulted with a hammer on Wednesday in the Indian Ocean
archipelago's capital, officials said, a rare attack in the upmarket tourist
destination.

Hussain Shameem was on his way to work when an unidentified attacker pounced
on him, injuring his left arm, a police official told AFP.

"There was an incident this morning where the Prosecutor General was
injured," Shameem's office said in a statement, adding that he was in a
stable condition in hospital.

Police said they suspected a link to criminal prosecutions Shameem had
handled. He is a senior lawyer who was promoted to the top job in December
2019.

The attack on Shameem came three days after violent scenes in parliament when
legislators rejected the appointment of three cabinet posts, including the
attorney general job.

Police said there was no immediate suggestion of a link between the
incidents.

On Sunday, ruling party legislators attempted to block a vote by the main
opposition -- who with their allies hold the majority in parliament -- on the
cabinet appointed by recently elected President Mohamed Muizzu.

Videos shared on social media showed at least one MP bleeding from the neck
after being caught up in a violent scrum inside the chamber, leading to the
temporary suspension of sittings.

Legislators were seen yanking off microphones and using plastic trumpets to
disrupt proceedings in chaotic scenes.