Two soldiers of the Maldives National Defence Force (MNDF)’s Special Protection Group have been released from custody.
Prior to their arrest about two weeks ago, the two had been assigned to the security post at the People’s Majlis.
The reason for their arrest, and subsequent release, remains unclear.
RaajjeMV understands that they were accused of attempting to create chaos within MNDF, breaking ranks and working to go against the government.
While a number of military officers are reported to have been arrested following the state of emergency declaration on 5th February, MNDF is yet to comment on the matter.
In addition, there are reports some senior MNDF officers have been “isolated” from work. MNDF is yet to deny these reports.
Calling the Supreme Court’s ruling to release political prisoners and reinstate opposition parliamentarians “an attempted coup,” President Abdulla Yameen said that the Maldives is currently in a "state of war".
Noting that the police and military must follow the orders of their commander during such a state, the President said that they “need not worry if the orders are lawful or not”.
