Police have said they have arrested 23 people at Thursday’s protest in capital city Male’.

While spokesperson and police superintendent Ahmed Shifan said this, more than 23 were taken into police custody on Thursday.

Police earlier arrested 15 from Wednesday’s protest, some of whom including lawmakers have been released.

Police confirmed they arrested Ihavandhoo MP Mohamed Abdulla, Dhaalu Kudahuvadhoo council president Ahmed Shaam, opposition party JP’s women’s league president Waleeda Waleed, and opposition MDP’s women’s wing’s secretary staff Aishath Waheed.

These arrests coincide with a mass anti-government demonstration planned by the joint opposition.