Police: Have made 11 arrests from the opposition’s rally

Maldives Police Service has confirmed that they have made 11 arrests from the ‘Neyva Holhiah’ mass rally held this evening in Male’ City, by the opposition coalition.

‘Neyva Holhiah’ mass rally at Male’ City this evening as part of the ‘India Out’ campaign was held despite warnings by the police against holding it.  

Whilst the rally was set to start at 4:00pm in the evening, Police had cordoned off the area in which PPM’s headquarters are located starting from 2:00pm this afternoon.

When the rally had commenced – Police had impeded it, obstructing the participants. A number of civilians and politicians taking part in the rally have been arrested as well.

A Police Spokesperson said that 11 individuals were arrested from the rally over obstruction of justice.

Male’ City Deputy Mayor Ahmed Nareesh was arrested from the road prior to the commencement of the rally.

Guraidhoo MP Ghassan Maumoon, Maavah MP Mohamed Saeed and former Hoarafushi MP Mohamed Ismail are also among those who have been arrested.

In a statement released by the opposition coalition this evening over the Police’s obstruction of their rally, the coalition condemned the government’s efforts to impede a peaceful demonstration planned, in compliance with the necessary laws.

They also urged to give a chance to carry on with the peaceful demonstration – and also requested to not physically assault civilians participating in the event.