No particular threat behind raising alert status: MNDF

Maldives National Defense Force (MNDF) has revealed that there is no particular threat or reason behind raising the alert status across the entire Maldives, to “Yellow two” earlier on Tuesday evening.

Speaking to media to provide the latest updates on the yellow alert, MNDF revealed that the alert status was raised, not particularly because they got reports of a particular threat or reason, and that it aims to prepare the military personnel for “anything that may happen”.

MNDF released a statement on Tuesday which reads that the alert status has been raised to “Yellow two” from 7pm onwards.

This follows a strengthening of security measures across the country, even at the Velana International Airport, as such, armed military personnel clad in uniform will be stationed across different areas.

During this period, military officers will be conducting raids and searches on vessels, reads the statement, which goes on to reveal that officers have urged the public to cooperate fully throughout the operation, in order to ensure that safety and peace are maintained.

The statement also highlights MNDF’s gratitude towards the people in the cooperation and assistance extended to carry out their responsibilities, to date.

Usually issued when there is an increase in “possible threats” to national security and peace, the Yellow alert comes at a time authorities have been taking strict measures against extremism in the country.

Even having launched an operation in Maduvvari island of Raa atoll due to increasing cases of extremism, authorities have thus far taken three individuals into their custody, with Commissioner of Police Mohamed Hameed having revealed that there are about 1,400 individuals in the country, “willing to kill” at the slightest provocation.