The Maldives Police Service has issued a stark warning against individuals spreading personal information and targeting police officers and their families on social media platforms, following the violent rally organized by the Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP) in Malé on the night of October 3.
In a firm statement, police revealed that some opposition-linked social media accounts have begun publishing personal data and photos of officers involved in maintaining order during the unrest — a move the service described as a coordinated attempt to incite hatred and fear against law enforcement personnel.
The statement declared that any attempt — online or offline — to obstruct, threaten, or intimidate officers performing official duties will result in immediate and severe legal action. The Police Service emphasized that such actions are criminal offences under Maldivian law and warned that the full extent of the law will be applied against those who attempt to endanger officers or their families.
“If any action is taken, even through social media, to obstruct an employee of a law enforcement agency by generating hatred toward that officer or their family, this Service will take necessary legal action,” the statement read.
Police underscored that publishing or sharing personal details of officers with malicious intent is not only an invasion of privacy but a direct attempt to undermine public order and security. Such efforts, authorities said, are designed to create fear among officers and to deter them from upholding the rule of law — a strategy the government views as deeply dangerous.
The Maldives Police Service further reaffirmed that obstructing law enforcement in any form — physically, verbally, or through online harassment — constitutes a prosecutable offence. The agency vowed that “the most severe measures possible” would be enforced against individuals or groups attempting to interfere with national security operations.
The statement comes amid increasing efforts by the MDP to mobilize online campaigns targeting state institutions and law enforcement, following the October 3 protest that spiraled into violence and confrontation with police.
Police urged citizens to avoid engaging with misinformation and online hate campaigns, and to report any posts or accounts that incite hostility or threaten national stability.
The announcement serves as a clear reminder that the state will not tolerate acts of intimidation or defamation against law enforcement, and that those who seek to endanger officers — even through digital platforms — will face the full force of justice.
