Maldives National Defense Force (MNDF) has officially lifted the ''Yellow alert 2'' status that was declared around the country following reports of “possible” threats to national peace and security.

According to a press statement released by the MNDF, the national security operation that began on December 24th concluded on January 2nd at 06:00 am. As such, MNDF announced that the 'Yellow alert 2'' status declared around the country has officially been lifted.

While the alert was raised to “Yellow two” from 7 pm onwards on 24 December, armed military personnel clad in uniform was stationed across different areas, including Velana International Airport, since then.

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

MNDF initially revealed that there was no particular threat or reason behind raising the alert status across the entire Maldives and that it aimed to prepare the military personnel for “anything that might happen”.