Security heightened at Indian High Commission in Maldives over arson threat

Security measures at the Indian High Commission in the Maldives have been heightened following arson threats.

A Police Spokesperson told Sun that security measures at Indian High Commission in the Maldives were heightened in connection case under investigation by the police. No further details were disclosed.

Nevertheless, Sun has learned security measures were heightened at the Indian High Commission over a tweet by former State Minister for Finance Abbas Adil Riza, encouraging an arson attack on the building.

Abbas, in a tweet, alleged that arson was committed at Addu City during the unrest by members of Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP) on February 8, 2012 after then-President Mohamed Nasheed’s government was overthrown, was on the orders of India. Noting that revenge has yet to be taken over the matter, Abbas called to set ablaze the Indian High Commission in the Maldives.

Foreign Ministry has also expressed concerns over Abbas’ tweet.

In a statement, the Ministry, said that the government was investigating the case as a serious matter whereas security forces have administered the necessary security measures over the threat.

Commissioner of Police Mohamed Hameed has described Abbas’ tweet as an act of terrorism. On this note, he said that encouragement of terrorism will be investigated as very serious matters.

Political parties including MDP, Adhaalath Party and MRM have condemned the tweet as well.