Several protests had erupted in various parts of the Maldives on Friday, calling on the Government to implement the Supreme Court ruling issued on February 1st.
Protests were held in Male’ City and Addu City, as well as several islands.
Maldives Police Service (MPS) had previously announced that they do not believe that Friday’s rally would be a peaceful one and would take action.
Before the protests even began, Police had arrested several high profile activists, including Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP) Deputy Leader Mohamed Shifaz, MDP National Council Member Ahmed Adhuham, MDP Economic Committee Chair Ibrahim Amru and Kanditheemu Constituency President Mohamed Shameem.
The haruge area and surrounding areas were barricaded by Police.
Police had used pepper spray and tear gas indiscriminately, on protesters, journalists and Members of Parliament gathered there.
Police had also entered MDP haruge, armed with shields and removed the sound system in the place.
