The Maldives Police Service has confirmed that the Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP) protest held in Malé on the night of 3rd October turned violent after participants violated the agreed route, attacked officers, and seized police equipment, losing the legal protection granted to peaceful assemblies.
According to the official police statement, the MDP protestors attempted to move onto Majeedhee Magu in direct violation of the route that had been approved in prior coordination with police. Despite repeated warnings and instructions to follow the approved path, participants refused to comply, instead confronting police officers, dismantling barricades, and throwing objects placed for crowd management. The statement also confirmed that protestors took a police-issued shield, classifying the act as unlawful conduct.
“These actions clearly caused the gathering to lose its peaceful nature as defined in Law No. 2013/1 — the Freedom of Peaceful Assembly Act,” the statement read. It added that under the latest amendment to this Act, the Ministry of Homeland Security and Technology has designated specific areas in Malé for public gatherings and marches, which must adhere to the established legal framework.
The police further emphasized that officers acted with patience and professionalism despite continued provocations. The use of force, where necessary, was conducted strictly within the authority granted under Law No. 2020/34 (Police Service Act) and relevant regulations governing police conduct.
The statement reaffirmed that all fundamental principles governing the use of force were fully upheld, ensuring the intervention remained lawful and proportionate. “Officers acted responsibly to restore public order and ensure the safety of all citizens,” the statement affirmed.
The Maldives Police Service reiterated its commitment to protecting national peace, enforcing the law, and ensuring that future gatherings remain within the bounds of legality and respect for public safety.
