The trial of eight people charged with obstructing police officers during an opposition MDP protest last year began at the Criminal Court today.

Among those facing charges are Mauroof Zakir and Fathimath Zahiyya.

The prosecution alleges that the defendants intentionally obstructed law enforcement officers while they were carrying out their duties during the MDP protest held in October last year.

At today's hearing, three of the accused requested the opportunity to enter into an agreement with the state, while four others asked for time to appoint legal counsel.

The court granted those defendants 10 days to secure lawyers before proceedings continue.

A total of eight people have been charged in connection with the case. Several others were also arrested during the protest but were later released without charges.