Opposition party MDP’s parliamentary group leader Ibrahim Mohamed Solih was arrested at Friday’s mass anti-government demonstration and taken to island prison Dhoonidhoo.

MDP at first denied the reports that he was arrested at the protest but has since confirmed.

Police have not disclosed the reason for his arrest or on whether his arrest was under the State of Emergency decree.

The rally saw a large number protesters walk toward Republic Square and police using excessive force including tear gas to disperse them.

Photos of Solih at Republic Square has been circulating on social media.