Fishermen describe police intervention in protest as a “terrorist attack”
Fishermen protested after an MP and several individuals were arrested during a peaceful demonstration by skipjack tuna fishermen's union. The protesters accused the government of failing to fulfill promises to the fishing industry, including fair pricing for catches and essential resources like ice. Police detained three people and two vessels for allegedly disobeying orders, though authorities did not clearly explain the charges
Fishermen sharing their concerns with RaajjeMV
A fisherman has characterized the police intervention in the recent peaceful fishermen’s protest as equivalent to a terrorist attack.
He conveyed this sentiment in comments made to RaajjeMV, describing the feelings among the fishermen.
He said that MP for Kendhoo constituency Mauroof Zakir was taken into custody during the skipjack tuna fishermen’s union’s protest as a scare tactic, insisting that fishermen would not be intimidated by government threats.
He also noted that among the foreigners arrested were individuals who had been operating in full compliance with the law.
He stated that regardless of what the government does, fishermen would continue defending their rights, accusing the government of shamelessly abandoning the pledges it made while seeking power and promising to elevate the fishing industry.
A young fisherman told RaajjeMV that it is unacceptable to blame fishermen for questioning the government when it fails to fulfill its commitments.
Another young individual rejected the claim that fishermen have given the government ample time, arguing that fishermen are simply demanding a fair price for their catch and should not be forced to plead for it. He said the demonstrations would only end once the promises made to yellowfin tuna fishermen are honored and that they would not back down, even if it meant imprisonment to secure their rights.
Another fisherman stated that the government has forced them into a position where they must beg for ice, which is essential for their livelihood.
He added that it is unacceptable for the government to remain indifferent while the public struggles.
Fishermen expressed deep disappointment that, despite making extensive promises to gain power, the government has acted in this manner.
During the protest, three individuals and two fishing vessels were taken into police custody on suspicion of disobeying police orders and obstructing police duty.
However, when questioned, the Maldives Police Service (MPS) did not clearly explain how their orders had been disobeyed, nor did they clarify how fishermen engaged in a peaceful protest at sea had obstructed police duty.
