MNDF declines to comment on opposition's weapon smuggling accusation

Maldives National Defence Force (MNDF) has declined to comment on the opposition coalition's allegation that weapons were smuggled into Maldives via the Cochin-Hanimaadhoo ferry route.

Speaking at a gathering held by the opposition in Male', the Vice President of People's National Congress (PNC) and the Council Member of Male' CIty Hulhumale Constituency Ibrahim Shuja said that although the government claimed that the ferry route between Cochin and Hanimaadhoo would bring in advantages to the north, that was not what happened. 

"Cochin ferry did not bring any advantages to the people. That was used to smuggle weapons and the Indian Military into Hanimaathoo. 

In the gathering, Shuja reiterated the opposition's stance that the 'India Out' campaign was not targeted at the people of India, and that it was against Indian military presence in Maldives. 

Since the allegations pertain to national security 'Sun', called and messaged to get a comment from MNDF. However, the only response received from MNDF was that they did not want to comment on the issue. 

The ‘India Out’ campaign spearheaded by the opposition leader, former President Abdulla Yameen Abdul Gayoom, – calls for the removal of Indian military personnel stationed in the Maldives. A lot of individuals have been raising voices in support of the campaign, via social media and other means.