Protesters report illness after LRAD deployment in Malé protest

The Long Range Acoustic Device (LRAD) deployed by police during the Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP) protest at Artificial Beach in Malé on Friday evening has drawn complaints from protesters and residents who say it caused health problems.

The LRAD, often referred to as a “sound cannon,” is a high-powered speaker system used in some countries for crowd control. It can be used to issue warnings and instructions, or, at higher volumes, to emit sharp sounds that disrupt demonstrations. Some models can generate sound levels above 150 decibels. This is the first reported use of the device by Maldivian police.

Several protesters said the sound caused dizziness, headaches and nausea. One described feeling unable to stand, while another reported ear pain, vomiting and difficulty sleeping.

“My head just feels like it’s breaking. I can’t even sleep,” said one participant.

Members of the MDP’s legal team condemned the use of the device. Lawyer Ahmed Mauroof said the LRAD should not be part of police operations and alleged it was an Israeli-manufactured product. “While importing an Israeli product into the Maldives is prohibited, importing such a product and using it by the police is serious. We will file those cases,” he said.

Another lawyer, Aik Ahmed Esa, said some protesters had complained of lasting hearing problems and urged police to act within the law.

Local residents also reported being disturbed by the sound. A parent living near Majeedhee Magu said the noise kept children awake.

Police have not yet commented on the complaints.

The use of LRADs in other countries has been controversial, with civil society groups raising concerns over their health impacts and the proportionality of their use in crowd control.