Two individuals have been arrested for entering Kendhikulhudhoo island in Noonu atoll, without the required authorization, at a time the government has banned travel between all inhabited islands.

Maldives Police Service (MPS) revealed that the two individuals were arrested from Maalhendhoo island in the same atoll. They are to have travelled to Kendhikulhudhoo island from Maalhendhoo on a small boat without the owner’s permission, close to 1am on Tuesday.

They were arrested after returning to Maalhendhoo and are to have left without informing the island’s task force.

Arrested in the case are a 37-year-old and a 29-year-old, both Maldivian.

The case is under further investigation.

Kendhikulhudhoo island is one of the many islands that have been placed under monitoring.

Travel between inhabited islands at a time a nationwide State of Public Health Emergency is in effect, is banned.

Earlier this week, two individuals, a 28-year-old and a 21-year-old, were arrested for entering locked down Kulhudhuffushi City without the required authorization.

During this time, island residents have been urged to cooperate with authorities in their efforts to control and contain the spread of the disease, follow the instructions set by relevant authorities and do their part for the community.