Several injured as protests heat up

Opposition groups took to the streets again last night in capital Male’, calling for the release of Chief Judge of Criminal Court Abdulla Mohamed and for the government to keep its actions within the limits of the law.

Last night’s protest heated up at around 1.00am when the Police began making arrests and chasing the crowds. Protesters reacted by throwing stones and plastic bottles at the Police.

Among the people arrested was former SAARC Secretary General Dhiyana Saeed.

According to her husband Jabir, she was arrested while sitting peacefully at Jumhooree Maidhaan. He condemned this unlawful act by the Police and said that legal action will be taken against them.

A reporter of the news website Dhiislam was also taken away by the Police. However the Police later said that he was not arrested, but that he was taken in their vehicle to make a few inquiries. He was released later last night while the protest was still ongoing.

Several people arrested in last night’s protest were taken to Dhoonidhoo.

MDP held a gathering under the “You cannot say that” campaign in parallel at their main hall. Foreign Minister Naseem said during the gathering that no calls have been received from any foreign parties regarding the arrest of Judge Abdulla.

Last night was the eleventh consecutive night of protests, in the series of demonstrations against the government which started with the arrest of several political figures and Judge Abdulla. Last night’s protest ended in chaos, with several injured and arrested.