Opposition and ruling party supporters got into a heated argument outside the Supreme Court on Sunday, as the court heard President Abdulla Yameen’s case to annul the presidential election result.

While 25 were allowed inside to observe the court hearing, many more have been waiting outside since 10am.

Police and military officers were seen separating supporters of the opposition coalition and President Yameen’s Progressive Party of Maldives, which began exchanging heated remarks after senior government officials and ruling party members were allowed inside the courtroom without having to wait in line.

Officers in riot gear have since herded the people and journalists away from the Supreme Court area.

Police have also arrested a man holding a placard on top of a tree and used pepper spray on the crowd, the placard reads "decision is very clear".