Maldives Police Service (MPS) has denied that its officers are hassling women seen out during curfew hours.

Following a surge in Covid-19 cases, authorities had increased safety measures across capital Male’ City with a curfew imposed and residents requiring permits to be out even during non-curfew hours.

Police officers are stationed on the roads to enforce these measures.

On Sunday, a Twitter user accused officers of hassling women by asking them inappropriate questions such as whether 'they are single' as well as 'where they are going' and 'why they are alone'. Describing this as unacceptable, the Twitter user highlighted that officers “are supposed to make the environment safe not be another creepy guy”.

In a statement released afterwards, police said that it is yet to receive such a complaint of officers asking irrelevant questions.

However, its Professional Standards Command is looking into the matter following the allegation on social media.

The statement further noted that officers might require residents to produce an ID to ensure the validity of a permit, as well as a contact number in the instance they are to be fined.