Police warn of crackdown on ‘unlawful’ opposition protest

The police have warned that the opposition alliance will not be allowed to stage an anti-government demonstration in Malé as planned on Monday.

Briefing the press late Sunday afternoon, Superintendent Ahmed Shifan said opposition leaders from the four-party coalition would have to bear responsibility for any unlawful gathering.

“As the area chosen and announced by the joint political parties for tomorrow’s gathering is a traffic-heavy zone in Malé and close to important state institutions, schools, and hospitals, this service will not allow any gathering that could disrupt traffic in the area and affect the private lives of people living in the neighbourhood,” he said.

“Moreover, the police appeal to all citizens at this opportunity not to participate in any illegal activities or join activities carried out by politicians for their political benefit.”