Protesters who blocked police duties face legal action

Police have announced that legal action will be taken against protesters who obstructed police duties at the ongoing Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP) protest. 

MDP's protest commenced at the Artificial Beach at 8:30pm tonight. Soon after, protesters came out on to the street and attempted to march down Majeedhee Magu. However, Police cordoned off the street and prevented protesters from proceeding down Majeedhee Magu, stating that it deviated from the pre-approved route for the protest. 

Police stated that the approved route for the protest covers Boduthakurufaanu Magu and Ameenee Magu.

With Police preventing protesters from marching down Majeedhee Magu, there was some altercation between Police and protesters, with police using pepper spray to disperse the crowds. 

A number of protesters have also been taken under arrest, including former parliamentarians. 

In a statement issued tonight, Police said that they had repeatedly warned protesters to refrain from attempting to march down Majeedhee Magu, as it falls outside of the approved route. 

They said that protesters defied instructions, and persisted in attempting to continue down Majeedhee Magu, and hurled objects such as water bottles and rocks at officers. Police stated that a number of protesters had obstructed police duties, and attempted to take away police equipment. 

"Legal action will be taken against those who committed these acts," Police stated. 

Police urged protesters to not obstruct law enforcement duties. 

Police and MNDF are conducting a special operation in Male' City in response to tonight's protest. 

Former President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih, MDP President Abdulla Shahid and MDP Chairperson Fayyaz Ismail are amongst tonight's protesters. 

Large numbers of people also travelled to Male' from across the atolls to join tonight's protest.