Maldives cautions citizens in UK amid violent protests

Maldives foreign ministry on Saturday issued a warning to Maldivians residing in the United Kingdom to exercise vigilance and avoid areas of protest following a series of violent far-right demonstrations linked to a tragic stabbing incident in Southport, England.

On July 29, a horrific stabbing at the Hart Space centre in Southport resulted in the deaths of three young girls and injuries to several others. The attack occurred during a Taylor Swift-themed dance class for primary school children. The suspect, a 17-year-old boy named Axel Muganwa Rudakubana, was arrested at the scene and has been charged with multiple counts of murder and attempted murder.

Following the incident, far-right groups, including the English Defence League (EDL), began spreading misinformation on social media, falsely claiming that the attacker was a Muslim migrant. Prominent far-right figure Tommy Robinson further inflamed tensions by posting a video denouncing Muslims and undocumented migrants, accusing the government and media of a cover-up.

On July 30, violent clashes erupted in Southport during a vigil for the victims. Demonstrators attacked a mosque and police officers, setting vehicles on fire and chanting anti-immigrant slogans. Similar protests occurred in London, resulting in over 100 arrests. British Prime Minister Keir Starmer condemned the violence and the far-right demonstrators.

The situation remains volatile, with more than 35 far-right protests planned across the UK between August 2 and August 17. On August 2, protests in Sunderland and Liverpool turned violent, with reports of looting, arson, and clashes with police. In Liverpool, tensions escalated outside the Abdullah Quilliam Society mosque, leading to a heavy police presence and further confrontations.

Given the heightened tensions and ongoing violence, the Maldives foreign ministry advises all Maldivians in the UK to remain vigilant and avoid protest areas. There is a significant concern for the safety of Muslim communities and mosques, and individuals may face confrontations in public spaces and on public transport.

The ministry urges Maldivians to stay informed through reliable news sources and to follow local authorities' guidance to ensure their safety during this turbulent period.