The Ministry of Heritage says police are investigating an incident in which graffiti was painted on the walls of Usgekolhu, one of the most significant historic structures in Sultan Park.

In a post on X today, the ministry said it had been alerted to the damage caused to the building, which is the only remaining section of the former royal palace complex. Efforts are underway to identify those responsible, and legal action will be taken under the Cultural Heritage Act.

The ministry warned that such acts could cause irreversible damage and undermine the cultural value of the historic building.

The government has decided to develop an interactive museum at the site in line with President Dr Mohamed Muizzu's vision. However, the ministry said the site has yet to be transferred from the Male' City Council despite a request being made for the handover.

The ministry added that work has now begun to transfer the site to its jurisdiction through legal channels.

Built in 1903 by Sultan Mohamed Imaduddin VI for his Egyptian consorts, Usgekolhu is more than a century old and most recently housed the National Museum. The building is regarded as an important example of the Maldives' historic architecture and is generally kept locked and monitored by CCTV cameras in Sultan Park.