Police warn against unauthorised rallies amid protests in Malé
Recent protests have taken place near the Sergeant Adam Haleem Building on Majeedhee Magu, where the Criminal Investigation Department is located.
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Maldives Police Service on Friday issued a warning that it will disperse unauthorised rallies and pursue legal action against individuals who organise them.
The statement follows over ten consecutive days of protests led by youth in response to the 18 April incident involving Hawwa Yumnu Rasheed, who fell from a building onto the rooftop of a nearby house in Malé.
In a press release, police said they will uphold the right to peaceful assembly as provided under the Freedom of Peaceful Assembly Act, ensuring equal access to this right for all citizens. However, they stressed that rallies, marches, and processions may only take place in locations designated by the Ministry of Home Affairs and do not require police permission only if held in these specified areas.
Previously limited to a single location, the Home Ministry announced today that public gatherings without prior police authorisation can now be held in four designated areas:
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1-
Henveiru Ground
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2-
Rasfannu
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3-
Industrial Zone
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4-
Usfasgandu
Police stated that any protest conducted outside these locations would be dispersed, in line with legal requirements. The statement added that the Maldives Police Service will not permit any gatherings that infringe on the fundamental rights of others.
“The Maldives Police Service will use lawful force to disperse unauthorised gatherings, initiate legal proceedings against organisers, and take necessary steps to safeguard public interest,” the statement said.
Police further stated that security will be provided for lawful demonstrations and for traffic and pedestrian flow in areas designated for such gatherings.
Recent protests have taken place near the Sergeant Adam Haleem Building on Majeedhee Magu, where the Criminal Investigation Department is located. Police have been barricading the area each evening in anticipation of renewed protests.
During the ongoing demonstrations, police have used force and pepper spray and detained two individuals. The Maldives Police Service said the protests were dispersed to protect the public and students in the vicinity.
