Terror threat levels in the Maldives are not any higher than most other countries, declared Minister of Defence Adam Shareef on Tuesday.
The minister’s proclamation comes in the wake of travel advisories released by the governments of the United Kingdom and Australia, warning their citizens of possible threat of terrorist attacks in the Maldives.
In response to an inquiry by Mihaaru regarding the travel advisories, Minister Shareef stated that the government is working very closely with other nations to combat terrorism. Noting that every nation in the world now experiences a certain level of terror threat, the minister asserted that the level is not relatively higher in the Maldives.
“The Maldives is a peaceful place and the majority of Maldivians are peace-loving.”
Minister Shareef also called upon people to refrain from talks and any other interactions or expressions that could evoke a terror attack against the nation.
The foreign ministry of the UK released a travel advisory on its website warning to exercise caution if travelling to the Maldives. The advisory declared that there is possibility of terror attacks in areas where tourists or foreigners gather.
“There’s a heightened threat of terrorist attack globally against UK interests and British nationals, from groups or individuals motivated by the conflict in Iraq and Syria. You should be vigilant at this time.”
The advisory also highlighted that UK authorities have classified the Maldives as having a risk of Zika virus transmission. Hence, it urged travellers to be cautious on the matter as it might be difficult to receive efficient healthcare.
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